Katlmad

Katlmad is a fictional atmospheric and geomagnetic phenomenon described in a science fiction setting. It refers to a repeating cycle of magnetospheric energy release on the planet Arion in the Valen system, generating luminous auroral bands across the night side, irregular wind bursts, and fluctuations in upper-atmosphere chemistry. It serves in worldbuilding to explain striking skies and climate variation. It is not observed in real planets and has no basis in current science.

Etymology: The name derives from the Arionic language, where katl means sky and mad denotes dance or movement; the compound evokes a sky-wide dance.

Physical description: The katlmad cycle lasts about 24 to 28 hours in the canonical setting and is driven by tidal resonance with a nearby moon, modulating solar wind coupling with the magnetosphere. Emissions are seen primarily in the green and violet parts of the spectrum; radio emissions in the low kilohertz range are reported. Weather effects include periodic gusts, pressure oscillations, and localized storms near polar zones.

Observations and significance: It was first described by orbital observers in year 2147 and later studied by ground expeditions; in-universe, katlmad events influence navigation, energy infrastructure, and agricultural planning, and are used in astronomy and astrology within the culture.

Cultural representation and variants: Some cultures mark katlmad peaks with rituals; other cultures model its cycle in calendars and art; alternative spellings or related phenomena appear in regional myths.