ClimateAugust 16, 2026
heliostat
HEE-lee-uh-stat
Definition
A device that includes a mirror which turns to track the sun and reflect its light towards a fixed target, used primarily in concentrating solar power systems.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek words 'helios' (sun) and 'statos' (standing or fixed), referring to a device that keeps an object in a fixed position relative to the sun.
In the news
The article highlights the 'Stellio heliostat' as a highly efficient mirror system designed for local South African manufacture to support the nation's solar power infrastructure.
South Africa is overlooking solar technology that can keep generating electricity after sunset
Read the full article ↗The Conversation