Valonheittäjät

Valonheittäjät, also known as "light throwers" in Finnish, is a term that can refer to a couple of different concepts. In a general sense, it describes devices designed to project light over a distance, such as powerful spotlights or searchlights. These are used in various applications, including illumination for outdoor events, aiding in search and rescue operations, and in military contexts for signaling or illuminating targets. The design of such devices typically focuses on high luminosity and a directed beam.

More specifically, "valonheittäjä" can also refer to a type of medieval siege weapon. These were essentially large crossbows or ballistae designed to launch incendiary projectiles, often bundles of burning material or pots filled with flammable liquids. Their purpose was to set fire to enemy fortifications, siege towers, or troops. These were a formidable part of siege warfare before the widespread adoption of gunpowder artillery. The effectiveness of valonheittäjät depended on the materials used for their projectiles and the accuracy of their aim.