Stable maps are a concept used in algebraic geometry, specifically in the study of moduli spaces. These maps are used to study families of algebraic curves or higher-dimensional varieties in a stable manner, meaning that the geometric structure of the curves or varieties remains relatively unchanged under certain conditions. Stable maps are often used to study the deformation theory of algebraic varieties, as well as to understand the geometry of moduli spaces of curves and their compactifications. They are a powerful tool for understanding the behavior of algebraic varieties under perturbations or deformations, and are crucial in many areas of algebraic geometry and related fields.