Names, outcomes, and discoveries from later histories are concealed in spoiler-light mode.
O'Neil cylinders are rotating hollow space habitats designed to provide Earthlike conditions along their inner surfaces. Rotation simulates gravity, with larger radii allowing slower rotation.
Also recorded as: O'Neil cylinder, O'Neill cylinder, O'Neill cylinders
Origins and limitations
Katie Silver attributes the original concept to physicist Gerard O'Neil in the late twentieth century. Structural strength limits the possible size because the habitat must withstand rotation. United Earth is considering such construction when Echo departs; Cylli later realizes the concept on a vast scale.[1][2]
Related records
Sources
Simon Evans, The Flaxen Tyranny, first edition (2023). Page numbers refer to the printed pagination of the source edition.