This article is from the Science Fiction Fandom FAQ, by Vicki Rosenzweig vr@panix.com with numerous contributions by others.
An asterisk is the conventional footnote symbol. On rassef, [*] and
other forms of asterisk-in-box mean "Please provide the footnote." It's
a way of asking for an explanation or cross-reference for a previous message.
I believe that this is derived from a panel at Minicon, in which four interesting
and erudite fans were invited to sit at the front of the room and chat, while the
audience held up paper asterisks whenever confused. The panelists cheerfully
explained, digressed, and had fun, as did the audience. We should do it again.
 
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