The Norwegian city where they try to smuggle in the sun with mirrors

Rjukan, a small Norwegian town, struggles with limited sunlight for nearly half the year. In 2013, large mirrors were installed on a nearby mountain to reflect sunlight into the town square, addressing the residents' need for vitamin D. Founded between 1905 and 1916 by Sam Eyde, Rjukan's development was influenced by concerns over workers' health due to lack of sunlight. Research indicates that sunlight exposure is crucial for both physical and mental health, with links to reduced depression. Eyde initially proposed using mirrors in 1913, but it wasn't until 2005 that artist Martin Andersen revived the idea, leading to the installation of computer-controlled heliostats that direct sunlight to the town square. The mirrors were officially inaugurated in 2013, providing much-needed light to the community.