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BrightSpark

Researchers based at Reading University will test whether electric charges can change the properties of cloud droplets as a means to brighten clouds. The team plans to use a small drone aircraft to release electrically charged ions into fog, which will then be monitored for changes, including in how sunlight passes through it.

By carefully controlling the release of ions, the team hopes to learn whether they can increase the number of smaller droplets and increase cloud reflectivity.

Cloud droplets

Note: The outdoor experiments funded by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) will only go ahead after environmental impact assessments and public consultations, and with independent oversight.

Sources: ARIA; Giles Harrison, University of Reading

By carefully controlling the release of ions, the team hopes to learn whether they can increase the number of smaller droplets and increase cloud reflectivity.

Cloud droplets

Note: The outdoor experiments funded by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) will only go ahead after environmental impact assessments and public consultations, and with independent oversight.

Sources: ARIA; Giles Harrison, University of Reading

Published June 18, 2025
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SRM360 (2025) – "BrightSpark" [Infographic]. Published online at SRM360.org. Retrieved from: 'https://srm360.org/infographic/brightspark/' [Online Resource]

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