Lightning Rod

"Now I can harness the heavens!"

- Wilson

The Lightning Rod is a Science structure that attracts Lightning strikes. It requires 3 Gold Nuggets and 1 Cut Stone to craft and a Science Machine to prototype.

When placed, the Lightning Rod diverts Lightning from striking and igniting nearby flammable objects such as Berry Bushes, Saplings, Grass Tufts, and Trees. It will provide protection from strikes for about two screens of surrounding area or 40 units of distance. (See the Console/Commands page for instructions on measuring distance; distance can be measured with a Pitchfork's 4x4 dig area).

The Lightning Rod also provides a small radius of light (but not heat) after absorbing a Lightning bolt, which is just bright enough to prevent Charlie from attacking. The light lasts for a few Days and will go dark as soon as morning comes.

Reign of Giants
In the Reign of Giants DLC, if a Lightning Rod and Volt Goat are in close vicinity, they both have an equal chance of being struck by Lightning. The cost to craft a Lightning Rod is also increased to 4 Gold Nuggets.

Trivia

 * This structure was added in the Doorway To Adventure update.
 * Most characters seem to act like they can use the power of the Lightning Rod, which may suggest future plans for the charged Lightning Rod.
 * A charged Lightning Rod makes a electrical sounds and animations every once in a while for cosmetic effect.