![]() ![]() Reflectivity can be reduced somewhat by applying a coating that absorbs light energy on the sunward side and re-emits it as thermal energy on the other. Radiation pressure is greater for reflective objects. ![]() The next issue to resolve is that of solar radiation pressure, which will cause the disc to move out of place. OK, say you captured an asteroid and start beating it down into a disc. Is it possible to construct something so large? Is it possible to launch it? And what can it be made from? Early suggested a chunk of moon or asteroid. Now, by large, we mean extremely large, in the sense of a disc comparable to that of a moon or planet in order to block the less than 2 per cent of sunlight reaching Earth (the figure usually given as sufficient for counteracting global warming is 1.8 per cent). Suggestions for form factor vary, including a large glass lens to disperse light or a mirror to reflect it. By placing a disc at L1, between the two bodies and 1.5 million kilometres from Earth, the relatively stable disc casts a penumbra that covers the planet. The basic principles were laid down in 1989 by James Early, who suggested a glass disc at a Lagrangian point, where the gravitational forces of two massive, orbiting bodies and the centrifugal force balance. Space-based solar radiation management boils down to putting something between the Earth and the Sun to reduce the amount of sunlight transmitted to Earth. Others argue that this would legitimise the idea that there is a Plan B, giving emitters licence to slack in their climate efforts. Some argue that it’s critical to give serious consideration to drastic geoengineering, given that carbon emissions are not being cut quickly enough to limit warming to 1.5☌ (following COP26, estimates are 2.4☌). Your letter touches on a controversial subject: solar radiation management. Could you tell me how to put a big pair of sunglasses on the Earth, so the sun no longer shines on the world? ![]() The rest of the world must be forced to experience this life of darkness. Diurnal normativity has caused silent suffering for my kind for many centuries. I live in a town in East Europe and its nightlife scene consists of some kebab shops, the second-nicest gym in town, and a golf-themed bar. I resent being unsynchronised with the rest of the world. This is of great inconvenience to me, particularly in summer. I suffer from extraordinary light sensitivity, which forces me to restrict my waking hours to between dusk and dawn. I am a creature of darkness, by which I mean that I am nocturnal. ![]()
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