Interpolon

Interpolon is a fictional planet featured in the science fiction novel "A Fire Upon the Deep" by Vernor Vinge. The planet is a significant location within the Tines' civilization, a species of intelligent, pack-minded dogs. Interpolon is characterized by its harsh environment and the unique social structure of its inhabitants. The Tines are divided into packs, with each pack consisting of multiple dog-like bodies controlled by a single consciousness. These packs are highly territorial and often engage in conflict with one another.

The planet's surface is described as rugged and prone to extreme weather conditions, making survival a constant challenge for the Tines. Their technology is adapted to this environment, with an emphasis on durable, rugged tools and structures. The Tines' civilization on Interpolon is ancient, and their history is marked by both periods of intense warfare and occasional cooperation. The concept of the "super-Tine," a consciousness that can control multiple packs simultaneously, plays a crucial role in the narrative and the political landscape of Interpolon.

The Tines' unique biology and social dynamics are central to the story's exploration of intelligence, communication, and collective consciousness. Interpolon serves as the primary setting for much of the early part of the novel, establishing the challenges and complexities of this alien world and its inhabitants. The planet's harshness reflects the often-brutal nature of the Tines' inter-pack relationships, creating a vivid and memorable backdrop for the unfolding events.