The Stearns, Charles A. creator Vestal, Herman B. 1916-2007 text utu 2020 monographic en 1 online resource : multiple file formats "The Pluto Lamp" by Charles A. Stearns is a science fiction novella published in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around the misfit character Knucklebone Smith and his ironic destiny of being chosen to install a beacon on the distant and inhospitable planet of Pluto. The tale is both a space adventure and a commentary on fate and personal worth, exploring themes of heroism and the unexpected contributions individuals can make. The story unfolds as Knucklebone Smith, an awkward and underappreciated human, is assigned to work with Professor Salvor-Jones to set up the Pluto Lamp, a self-sustaining warning beacon for starships. Initially disenchanted with his fate, Knucklebone's character evolves as he confronts various mishaps during their isolation, leading to a critical meteor storm. In a moment of unforeseen bravery, he attempts to assist Salvor-Jones during a crisis, ultimately sacrificing himself to save the beacon and the ship, thereby ensuring its vital function. The legacy of their endeavor results in a monument honoring both men, suggesting that every individual, no matter how unremarkable, plays a significant role in the grand tapestry of life. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Release date is 2020-11-08 Greg Weeks, Mary Meehan and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net Original publication data not identified Science fiction Short stories Pluto (Dwarf planet) -- Fiction PS Original publication data not identified https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/63676 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/63676 UtSlPG 260607 20260610134451.0 63676