MIT Researchers Propose Using Space Bubbles to Deflect Solar Radiation Before it Hits Earth

MIT researchers propose using thin reflective films, or ‘space bubbles’, to deflect solar radiation before it hits Earth. This solution would be easily deployable and fully reversible. To prove this, the team has already tested these bubbles in outer space-like conditions, making them one of the most efficient thin-film structures for deflecting solar radiation.

Unlike other solutions, these bubbles could be manufactured in outer space, which means it would be possible to form an extensive deflective raft positioned at the Lagrangian Point between the Earth and the Sun. What is a Langrian Point? These are basically positions in space where the gravitational forces of a two body system like the Sun and the Earth produce enhanced regions of attraction and repulsion. Now sleeping in space comfortably is an entirely different story.

LEGO City Rocket Launch Center 60351 Building Kit; NASA-Inspired Space Toy for Kids Aged 7 and up (1,010 Pieces)

• LEGO City space-themed playset – The LEGO City Rocket Launch Center (60351) playset comes with an array of NASA-inspired toys for imaginative space play
• What’s in the box? – Everything kids need to build a rocket, launch tower, detailed observatory and launch control center, plus a service vehicle, planet rover, drone and 6 minifigures
• Designed for creative play – Kids can operate the launch tower elevator to deliver the astronauts to the boarding gangway and play out scenarios in the toy space observatory and rocket launch center
• A gift for kids and space fans – This LEGO space toy can be given as a birthday, holiday or any-other-day surprise for budding astronauts aged 7 and up
• Rocket dimensions – When built, the toy space rocket, including boosters, measures over 16.5 in. (42 cm) high and 4 in. (11 cm) wide

We are an interdisciplinary team of MIT scientists from Architecture, Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Physics, and Materials Science working on technical and social aspects of this planetary-scale project. Together, we can think radically to solve the worst case scenario,” said the team.