US A team of experts at the University of Washington used a specialized sprayer to spray microscopic sea salt particles into the clouds above the ocean, helping to redirect sunlight.
Simulation using unmanned ships to perform ocean cloud enhancement techniques. Photo: Interesting Engineering
Global warming is prompting scientists to look for solutions. A team led by the University of Washington recently conducted the first outdoor test of ocean cloud brightening, a technique that deflects sunlight and could temporarily cool the planet, Interesting Engineering reported on April 5. The test took place in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Clouds naturally reflect sunlight back into space. Researchers are trying to intentionally enhance this natural phenomenon, redirecting more sunlight away from Earth. To increase the brightness, or reflectivity, of clouds, they inject sea salt aerosols into low-lying clouds over the ocean. This reduces the amount of sunlight that Earth absorbs, resulting in a cooling effect. This process of pushing solar energy back into space is sometimes called solar radiation modification or solar radiation management.
The team used a specialized sprayer on the deck of the Hornet aircraft carrier to spray microscopic sea salt particles into the air. In the full-scale version, the ship will also be equipped with a super-large sprayer to spray the particles.
In the test, the team evaluated the machine’s ability to consistently spray the right size salt particles into the air. The correct particle size is crucial to achieving the right cloud reflectivity. Smaller particles provide better reflectivity, while larger particles can result in poorer reflectivity.
Despite its potential, ocean cloud brightening also raises concerns. Some scientists are skeptical about the technique, especially when applied on a large scale. The method has the potential to affect climate patterns, causing changes in ocean currents and rainfall patterns. Even the team behind the ocean cloud brightening experiment said they are studying “potential side effects.” Scientists are working to understand the effects of the technique through careful research and analysis.
But the best way to mitigate rising temperatures is to stop burning fossil fuels, which emit planet-warming gases. Without a reduction in emissions, the goal of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels is becoming increasingly impossible.
Thu Thao (According to Interesting Engineering )
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