I landed on this theme idea in September 2023, fiddled around with it for a bit and then set it aside. In mid-May of 2024, I floated the idea to an outlet but was told it was “a bit broad”: thus, into the rejected theme folder it went. I pulled it out a couple of weeks ago and, because I think the premise of the theme is kind of fun – albeit somewhat nerdy – I decided to forge ahead. I opted for four theme answers, rather than three, in addition to a revealer, which resulted in a grid with more 3-letter entries than I’d like. And because the SW corner gave me fits (☹), I ended up adding an asymmetrical black square to make it work. Despite these shortcomings, I hope some of you will think it’s interesting and enjoy the solve.

As always, comments welcome.