Ruthen

Ruthen is a fictional element that appears in the science fiction universe of the novel "Rendezvous with Rama" by Arthur C. Clarke. In the story, Ruthen is a highly valuable and rare element found only within the cylindrical alien spacecraft known as Rama. It is described as having unusual properties, including the ability to store vast amounts of energy and to interfere with certain types of electromagnetic radiation.

The discovery of Ruthen by the human explorers aboard Rama is a significant plot point, as its unique characteristics make it a crucial component in understanding and potentially replicating the alien technology. The explorers speculate that Ruthen might be responsible for Rama's ability to travel through interstellar space and to maintain its complex internal environment. The economic and scientific implications of this discovery are immense, as Ruthen could revolutionize energy production and advanced technological development.

However, the precise nature and origin of Ruthen remain largely mysterious within the context of the novel. The limited understanding of its properties highlights the vast technological gap between humanity and the creators of Rama. The element serves as a symbol of the unknown and the potential for advanced alien civilizations to possess resources and knowledge far beyond human comprehension. Its rarity and unique properties make it a coveted substance, driving much of the exploration and scientific inquiry within the Rama series.