Abstract: A body 20 includes a support structure 30 in which is formed monolithic aerogel 32 and has terminal insulating properties or other desirable properties. The body 20 can be enveloped in an impermeable membrane 34, 36 so as to allow a vacuum or another environment to be contained in the aerogel 32. The support structure 38 can include individual cells 22, each of which can support its own independent environment which is unaffected by the accidental or planned interruption in the environment of any adjacent cell 22.