surfacers

Surfacers are a fictional species of humanoid aliens introduced in the 1984 science fiction novel *The Surfacers* by avon author David Drake. They are the dominant intelligent species on the planet of *Surf*, a world where the surface is inhospitable due to extreme heat and radiation. As a result, the Surfacers have evolved to live entirely underground, relying on advanced technology to sustain their civilization.

The Surfacers possess a unique biological adaptation: their skin is highly sensitive to light, allowing them to perceive it as a form of communication. This sensitivity makes prolonged exposure to sunlight painful and even lethal, reinforcing their subterranean lifestyle. Their society is highly advanced, with a culture centered around exploration, science, and the study of the unknown. They are known for their curiosity and their fascination with the surface world, which they refer to as the "Above."

In Drake’s original novel, the Surfacers are depicted as a peaceful but enigmatic civilization. They develop a symbiotic relationship with humans, who are introduced to their world as part of a scientific exchange. The story explores themes of adaptation, survival, and the ethical implications of human interaction with an alien species. The novel’s sequel, *The Deep*, expands on their society and further develops their relationship with humanity.

The term "Surfacer" has since been used more broadly in science fiction to describe any species that inhabits the surface of a planet while others, such as subterranean or aquatic lifeforms, remain below. The concept has influenced later works, including video games like *The Elder Scrolls* series, where "Surfaces" (or surface-dwellers) are sometimes referenced in lore. Despite their limited appearances in media, the Surfacers remain a notable example of an alien species adapted to extreme environmental conditions.