The Brick Moon, and Other Stories

"The Brick Moon" by Edward Everett Hale is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. The titular story, "The Brick Moon," revolves around characters who, during their college days, conceive an ambitious plan to create a brick moon as a solution for determining longitude more accurately for sailors at sea. Through a blend of ingenuity and humor, the narrative explores the evolution of this whimsical project and the characters’ communal efforts and aspirations. At the start of "The Brick Moon," the narrator, Captain Frederic Ingham, reflects on the origins of the idea for the Brick Moon that he and his college friends, particularly his brother Nathan (referred to as Q), conceived while discussing the challenges of calculating longitude. They determine that the solution lies in constructing an enormous brick structure to orbit the Earth, thus assisting navigators. The opening portion transitions from reminiscing about their college days to elaborate calculations and plans for launching this unconventional moon. The characters are portrayed with warmth and humor, highlighting their youthful determination and camaraderie as they embark on this eccentric but noble quest.