Researchers are currently investigating whether a parasol in space can stop global warming. The construction of such a system is apparently already possible.
In recent decades, humanity’s energy requirements have continued to rise. Industrialization has given us access to unprecedented products. At the same time, more and more machines have been helping us with our work. However, this development has also brought with it a number of challenges. After all, high electricity consumption contributes to climate change in the worst case scenario.
Research groups are therefore now asking themselves whether we can generate sustainable energy from the sun even more effectively in the future. One idea is to build huge solar sails in space. Scientists now want to investigate whether a space-based sunshade could serve as a method of combating global climate change.
Sunshade in space already possible
According to the research paper, a solar sail may be the best solution for managing solar radiation. At the same time, the researchers see the approach as a key element in global efforts to combat climate change. To this end, international organizations would soon have to install the structure at the Sun-Earth Lagrange 1 point.
This would reduce radiation exposure by reflecting sunlight back into space. The scientists say that the construction of a so-called “Planetary Sunshade” is already possible and can be based on existing solar sail technology. After all, transporting materials into space is cheaper than ever before.
Humanity must manipulate the climate wisely and purposefully
There are currently two possible construction strategies for the parasol. The first phase of construction could be launched by the international community from Earth. Later phases would then be based on resources in space. However, there are also concerns about the impact on our planet.
Morgan Goodwin, Executive Director of the Planetary Sunshade Foundation, points out that humans are already experimenting with the planet on a large scale. He argues that our survival as a civilization depends on our ability to make wise and intentional changes. So whether a sun-repellent sail will protect humanity from climate change in the near future remains to be seen.
