Ben Bromley is a theoretical and computational astrophysicist in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Utah.

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Astrophysical dust is remarkably efficient at modifying starlight. Even in small quantities, dust can reflect and absorb enough light to alter a star’s observed spectrum, an effect far greater, per unit mass, than that of planets. Building on this idea, space-borne dust placed between Earth and the sun could block a small fraction of sunlight, potentially slowing current global warming trends and averting climate tipping points. In this talk, we will examine the nature and amount of dust needed to influence Earth’s climate, along with several strategies for deploying it as a solar shield. We will also consider the technological challenges, potential risks, and the role such a temporary, space-based intervention could play alongside long-term solutions to climate change.

About Ben Bromley: 

Ben Bromley is a theoretical and computational astrophysicist at the University of Utah. His work spans a range of topics, including astrophysical cosmology and the large-scale structure of the universe, relativistic astrophysics with a focus on supermassive black holes, and planet formation with the ultimate goal of understanding the possibility for life on distant planets like our own. Recent highlights include a search for Planet Nine, a hypothetical super-Earth in the remote regions of our solar system,  and a study to assess whether dusty grains, launched into space, could be used as a solar shield to prevent catastrophic changes to Earth’s climate. Much of this work involves intensive calculations performed on NASA supercomputers. Throughout, Bromley has been committed to sharing his love of astrophysics and the research strategies he uses with students here at the University of Utah.

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