The Moon is a Harsh Mistress by Robert Heinlein:
Science Fiction Inventions, Technology and Ideas

The Moon is used as a penal colony; most residents are criminals or exiles. After acclimating on the Moon, return to Earth is impractical. A single computer system manages the vast infrastructure of the Moon as well as lunar mining; it eventually gains self-awareness and helps the Loonies rebel against Earth's tyranny.

The novel won the 1967 Hugo Award.


(Original serialized publication cover)

Select an invention:

Adam Selene
A computer generates a human avatar for itself.

Alternate Computer Personality
A computer system that can take on complete, alternate personalities.

Computer Humorist
A computer acquires the ability to tell original jokes.

Cyborg Pilot - man plus machine
A combination of a human being (at least the thinking part) and a machine.

Ground-to-Orbit Ferry
A kind of space shuttle craft.

Hush Hood - privacy when you need it
A device that cancels noise, ensuring that others cannot overhear.

Lunar Greenhouse Tunnel
A multipurpose conservatory on the Moon.

Lunar Ice Mining - water on the moon
The practice of mining for ice on the moon.

Mass-Driver Catapult - mass driver for the Moon
An escape-speed induction catapult to launch material into orbit.

Mike (Mycroft Holmes - Fair Dinkum Thinkum) - artificial intelligence early on
A large computer that woke up - an artificially intelligent, self-aware machine.

Moon As Prison
The moon is a prison without bars.

Neuristor
A solid-state computer component that mimics the human neuron.

Specialized Prosthetic Arm
A set of prosthetics that provide different functionality in place of missing arm.

TANSTAAFL - and there isn't
There ain't no such thing as a free lunch.

 

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