Heliostat

/ˈhiːliəstæt/ noun

Definition

A device with mirrors that automatically tracks the sun and reflects its light in a constant direction, even as the sun moves across the sky.

Etymology

From Greek 'helios' (sun) and 'statos' (standing, stationary), combining elements meaning 'sun-standing.' The term was coined in the 19th century to describe instruments used in astronomy and solar experiments.

Kelly Says

Heliostats are used by astronomers to bounce sunlight into telescopes and by scientists studying solar energy—essentially teaching mirrors to keep their eyes on the sun no matter what time of day it is.

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