QuickCheck: Is there a town that uses mirrors to help combat seasonal depression?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression, is a form of depression associated with seasonal changes, especially in the fall and winter, where there is little to no sunlight.

But what can a town, nestled in a deep alley high in the mountains, do to get sunlight when it is deprived of it for six months each year? Perhaps mirrors could be used to direct sunlight so everyone can receive their vitamin D?

Is there really such a place in the world?

Verdict:

TRUE

The idea may seem outlandish, but the town of Rjukan, located in southern Norway, has installed large mirrors to reflect sunlight into the valley.

Nestled in a deep valley surrounded by towering mountains, Rjukan experiences a lack of direct sunlight for approximately half of the year, which can lead to seasonal depression among its residents.

Rjukan was initially developed between 1905 and 1916 by entrepreneur Sam Eyde, who constructed a hydroelectric power plant. Despite the industrial prosperity, the lack of sunlight during winter raised concerns about the residents’ mental and physical health.

Oscar Kittilsen first proposed using mirrors to redirect sunlight in 1913. However, the idea was not realised at the time.

In 2005, with support from a local council grant, Andersen developed a heliostat system—mirrors that track the sun and reflect its light onto a specified area. By 2013, three mirrors measuring 17 square-meters were installed on the mountainside above Rjukan. These mirrors reflect sunlight into the town square for two hours each day during the winter months, providing both physical warmth and psychological uplift.

Some locals view the mirrors as a draw for tourists, while recent immigrants cherish the light and warmth they provide. These mirrors light up the town and lift spirits, showcasing an innovative strategy to combat seasonal depression.