Subscribe now

Environment

Should we tweak the atmosphere to counteract global warming?

With severe climate impacts becoming more and more apparent, many scientists think we should explore ways to block out solar radiation, but doing so would be risky

By Madeleine Cuff

23 April 2024

A machine sprays sea salt particles from the flight deck of a decommissioned aircraft carrier in California to test a technique to make clouds brighter

New York Times/Redux/eyevine

The following is an extract from our climate newsletter Fix the Planet. Sign up to receive it for free in your inbox every month.

Earlier this month, on the deck of a second world war aircraft carrier docked in San Francisco, a giant fan began spraying sea salt particles into the air.

Few people, beyond those on the ship and bystanders on the nearby dock, would have taken much notice of the…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account