The small town of Rjukan, Norway, spends much of the year in the shadows. Surrounded by tall mountains, Rjukan gets no direct sunlight from late September to mid-March.
For many years, people living in Rjukan had to travel up the mountain to feel the sun. But in 2013, the town found a creative solution. It installed three large mirrors on a nearby mountain to reflect sunlight into the town square.
The mirrors follow the sun’s movement and direct light down to the people below. Now, even in the middle of winter, residents and visitors can sit on benches in the bright, warm sunlight while the rest of the town remains in the shade.
Before the mirrors, people in Rjukan had to ride a cable car up the mountain to feel the sun. It was the only way to enjoy sunlight. Today, the sun mirrors are a popular attraction and a symbol of hope during the long, dark months. For the people of Rjukan, the mirrors are more than just an invention – they are a way to stay connected to the sun.
Luis Apolo Staff Reporter junior/1744681001/1613368124
1. How long does Rjukan remain without sunlight each year?
2. What solution did Rjukan install in 2013 to bring sunlight to the town?
3. Where are the mirrors installed in Rjukan?
4. Why are the mirrors considered a symbol of hope in Rjukan?
1. What are the benefits of having sunlight in the town square?
2. How might the lack of sunlight affect people’s mood or health?
3. Would you like to visit a place like Rjukan? Why or why not?
4. Why do you think sunlight is important for a community?
The small town of Rjukan, Norway, spends much of the year in the shadows. Surrounded by tall mountains, Rjukan gets no direct sunlight from late September to mid-March.
The mirrors follow the sun’s movement and direct light down to the people below. Now, even in the middle of winter, residents and visitors can sit on benches in the bright, warm sunlight while the rest of the town remains in the shade.
