Light Pipe

A light pipe is an architectural element widely used on tidally locked planets, particularly (link: page://AOwHj7KtPVm2rfuS text: Tallis), to distribute natural sunlight throughout buildings and underground structures. These devices consist of large cylindrical tubes made of highly reflective materials that efficiently channel sunlight from the perpetually lit exterior to interior spaces.

History and Development

Light pipes have been integral to Tallisite architecture since the earliest settlements, with archaeological evidence dating primitive forms back to approximately -5000. The first light pipes were simple shafts cut into rock formations, lined with polished metal to reflect sunlight into underground dwellings. These early designs were crucial for early Tallisite communities seeking shelter from intense dayside sunlight.

The introduction of glass-blowing techniques around -3000 marked a significant improvement, allowing for more efficient light transmission and the ability to bend light around corners. The Tallisite Industrial Revolution (c. -200 to -20) brought mass production techniques for high-quality reflective materials, making light pipes a standard feature in most structures.

Design and Function

Modern Tallisite light pipes consist of three main components:

1. Collector: Integrated into the building's exterior, designed to capture and focus constant sunlight.
2. Transport section: The main body of the light pipe, using advanced reflective materials.
3. Distributor: Devices that disperse light evenly into interior spaces.

State-of-the-art Tallisite light pipes can transmit up to 90% of captured sunlight over distances of 10 kilometres or more. They are ubiquitous on Tallis, used in residential structures, agricultural facilities, public spaces, and industrial complexes.

Cultural Impact and Spread

Light pipes feature prominently in Tallisite art, literature, and religious practices. Many Tallisite creation myths involve deities using cosmic light pipes to bring life to the planet's dark side. As Tallisites colonized other tidally locked worlds, light pipe technology spread, becoming common throughout tidally locked colonies in the known galaxy.

See also

• Tallisite architecture
• Tidally locked planet adaptation
• Subterranean city planning
• Solar energy systems on tidally locked worlds