Tohruss

Tohruss is a fictional planet featured in the science fiction novel "The Mote In God's Eye" by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle. It is the homeworld of the Moties, an alien species encountered by humanity. Tohruss is depicted as a tidally locked world, meaning one side perpetually faces its star, while the other remains in darkness. This extreme environmental condition has shaped the evolution and society of the Moties.

The star system in which Tohruss resides is known as the "Mote" due to the presence of a small, unstable star. The planet itself is characterized by a narrow habitable zone between the scorching hot side and the frigidly cold side. This habitable zone is where the Moties have developed their complex civilization. Their society is described as being highly structured and driven by a scarcity of resources, particularly usable land and energy.

Tohruss's unique environment has led to the development of a species with a complex life cycle and a strong emphasis on efficiency and cooperation. The planet's geology is also a significant factor, with the Moties having adapted to utilize its resources in ingenious ways. The interactions between humanity and the Moties on Tohruss form a central part of the novel's narrative, exploring themes of first contact, alien biology, and societal development.