Lecture Notes: The Weird World of Solar Death Rays

Introduction

• In 2010, solar reflections from buildings in Las Vegas and London caused extreme heat and damage.
• These incidents are due to the buildings reflecting sunlight in concentrated beams, termed 'Solar Death Rays.'
• Key locations: Vedara Hotel in Las Vegas and 20 Fenchurch Street in London.

Key Incidents

• Bill Pintus: Burned hair and skin while at Vedara Hotel pool.
• Martin Lindsay: Melted Jaguar car parked near 20 Fenchurch Street.

Physics Behind Solar Death Rays

• Solar Convergence: Parallel light rays striking a parabolic surface converge at a focal point, creating intense heat.
• Reflective, curved glass facades of buildings act as parabolic mirrors.
• Can cause temperatures high enough to melt objects or cause burns.

Examples and Reports

• Viral reports of burned hair, melted plastic, and fried eggs on the street.
• Temperatures recorded up to 117°C at 20 Fenchurch and 92.6°C at Vedara.

Architectural Responsibility

• Architect: Rafael Vignoli designed both buildings.
• Known for using parabolic shapes despite known risks.
• Preemptive measures (sun-reducing films) were insufficient.

Response and Adjustments

• 20 Fenchurch Street: Sun blinds and permanent awnings installed.
• Vedara Hotel: Non-reflective film applied, umbrellas provided.

Practical Uses of Solar Convergence

• Channeling sunlight to dark spaces, e.g., New York project.
• Solar furnaces for power generation, e.g., in France.

Conclusion

• Importance of physics and math in architectural design.
• Mention of educational resources like Brilliant for learning these subjects.

Additional Information

• A planning advice document on solar convergence is now a key reference for architects.
• Vignoli's controversial interview about his designs and their unintended consequences.