Document Type
Article
Original Publication Date
1991
Journal/Book/Conference Title
Journal of the British Interplanetary Society
Volume
44
First Page
135
Last Page
148
Date of Submission
August 2017
Abstract
The expected global warming may be reversed by space-based screen that would intercept a fraction of the solar radiation incident on Earth. Warming by 2-5oC could be prevented by intercepting 3-7%, respectively, of the incident solar radiation. The screen may be constructed for example of a thin film, a grid of film supported by a mesh or fine-grained dust deployed in orbit about the Earth. For an average film thickness or particle radius of 0.001 cm, the required mass is 1014 - 1015 g, equivalent to a medium sized lunar mountain or asteroid. The material may b deployed and processed using existing technology, similar to methods proposed for space habitat construction. The cost may be substantially lower than the economic and human damage caused by a significant climate change.
Is Part Of
VCU Chemistry Publications