planetrans

Planetrans is a fictional planet featured in the science fiction novel "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin. It is the second planet of the binary star Gethen, which is part of the Ansible constellation. The planet is notable for its binary star system, which results in complex light patterns and seasons that are out of sync with each other. This unique astronomical feature is a significant aspect of the novel's exploration of themes such as gender, society, and politics.

The planet's surface is covered in a vast ocean, with a thin strip of land running along the equator. This unique geography is a result of the planet's tidal locking with its binary star, which has caused the planet to be tidally locked with one of the stars. The other star, Gethen, is visible in the sky as a large, slow-moving object, which has a significant impact on the planet's climate and seasons.

The planet's inhabitants, known as the Gethenians, are a matriarchal society where gender roles are fluid and determined by biological factors rather than social constructs. This society is governed by a council of women, known as the Gloss, who are responsible for making decisions about the planet's future. The novel explores the Gethenian society through the perspective of an ambassador from Earth, who is sent to the planet to negotiate a peace treaty.

"The Left Hand of Darkness" is a seminal work in the science fiction genre, known for its exploration of complex social and political themes through a unique and imaginative setting. The planet Planetrans, with its binary star system and matriarchal society, is a key element of this exploration.