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whatissevenbysix t1_j5b5z18 wrote

Ringworld is a popular science fiction based on (sort of) the same idea. The ring in it is essentially a huge ring around a star instead of a planet, some 100s of million miles in diameter, and is artificial. Also, it's facing the sun. The science isn't actually accurate I think but it's a good story if you want to read.

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Ok_Bookkeeper_3481 t1_j5bc4o9 wrote

Essentially an offshoot of a Dyson sphere. I‘ve always wondered about the mechanics of those. ;-)

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PlaidBastard t1_j5bxw1u wrote

Either one requires a rigid ring or hollow sphere that can be evenly 'balanced' around the central star or planet in (usually) a rotation equal to a circular orbit at the sphere's equator. Closer to that ideal spin rate, the less the ring/sphere tries to implode or throw itself apart. Unfortunately, it still needs fantastical materials to be rigid enough even if it's perfectly spun for the ring, and the sphere's poles present a massive problem...

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thred_pirate_roberts t1_j5cjxc4 wrote

What if it was a planet-like, a rigid ring but with inner fluidish magma layers? Would the external forces and gravity allow the ring crust to remain while moving around the magma mass?

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