Resembling the lair of a Bond villain, a very large solar furnace towers over the serene natural terrain of the Pyrenees. Learn how the site harnesses the sun’s energy.
The Héliodyssée-Grand Four Solaire d’Odeillo is the museum attached to an enormous solar energy research site. Like a large twisting mirror, the furnace’s shiny panels reflect and distort the hilly terrain of the Pyrenees Mountains in the midst of ski resorts. Find out about solar power, a free and non-polluting energy source, through the exhibits within the visitor center.
Take photos of the exceptional structure, with green meadows and hills completing a scenic backdrop. The mirrored furnace stands on a slope in France’s southernmost region, which was chosen for its vast reception of sunlight. The area gets more than 3,500 hours of sunshine per year.
View some of the smaller solar tools in the Héliodyssée museum’s outdoor area. Among these are a solar barbecue, a solar-viewing projector and solar furnaces. Point kids to the exhibits about tricks of light and heat sources.
Bring snacks and refreshments for a picnic at the foot of the furnace. Because of its altitude of 4,900 feet (1,500 meters) the site is susceptible to cold winds and sudden drops in temperature. Make sure to come with sunglasses and sunscreen year round. In winter, a thick layer of snow covers the region, reflecting the sun’s rays.
Consider the history of this solar furnace, which was constructed in 1969 by the National Scientific Research Center. It is composed of 63 heliostatic (moving) mirrors that focus the sun’s rays onto a tiny spot. Uses for the mirror include energy conversion and heat transfer. Experiments here are of particular interest to the aerospace industry.
Find the Héliodyssée-Grand Four Solaire d’Odeillo in Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via in southern France. Arrive at the village’s namesake train station, a little north of the site, on the Little Yellow Train route. While in the region, go to some of the neighboring landmarks, such as Golf de Font-Romeu, Bouillouses Lake and Les Angles Ski Resort.
