Dead Planets Society is a podcast that explores wild ideas about tinkering with the universe, from splitting the moon in half to triggering a gravitational wave apocalypse, and applies them to the laws of physics to see how they hold up. Listen on Apple, Spotify, or our Podcast page.
A total solar eclipse is a mesmerizing cosmic event that can be witnessed on Earth, although it may be rare and difficult to experience. Join Leah Crane and Chelsea White on this episode of Dead Planets Society as they discuss efforts by researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, led by astronomer Bruce Mackintosh, to create an artificial total solar eclipse accessible to everyone.
Natural solar eclipses occur when the moon passes in front of the sun, casting a shadow on Earth’s surface. To replicate this artificially, the hosts must place something between the Earth and the Sun, potentially using small sunshades or a larger object like a planet. However, challenges exist with both approaches, such as the need for incredible speed for a small shade or the logistical difficulties of using a planet.
One solution proposed is deploying numerous small panels into space and maneuvering them to block sunlight in formation, creating an artificial solar eclipse without catastrophic consequences.
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Source: www.newscientist.com
