sleetlight

Sleetlight is a fictional phenomenon described in speculative fiction, often associated with atmospheric conditions on alien planets or in imagined future Earth environments. It typically refers to a type of illumination that is both diffuse and cold, reminiscent of sleet or ice. This light is not a standard meteorological event but rather a descriptive term used by authors to evoke a specific mood or sensory experience.

The term "sleetlight" suggests a quality of light that is dim, often grey or muted, and carries an implication of low temperatures or a chilling atmosphere. It might be used to describe the light filtering through thick clouds, a perpetual twilight state, or the glow from an unnatural source that lacks warmth. Authors may employ sleetlight to enhance a sense of desolation, mystery, or unease within their narratives.

While not scientifically defined, the concept of sleetlight draws on sensory associations. Sleet itself is precipitation that freezes on impact, creating a slippery, often grey landscape. The "light" component implies that this characteristic is somehow visible, casting a pall over the surroundings. This can manifest as a dim, pervasive glow or a faint illumination that struggles to penetrate dense, icy atmospheres. The term serves as a concise way to convey a complex visual and atmospheric impression.