SCoPEx

Description

The Stratospheric Controlled Perturbation Experiment (SCoPEx) was first proposed by Harvard researchers in 2014 but was ultimately cancelled in 2024.

The stated goal of the SCoPEx project was to improve computer simulations by observing how particles mix and spread in the stratosphere. The researchers planned to loft 100 g to 2 kg of tiny particles – primarily calcium carbonate – into the stratosphere via a high-altitude balloon attached to a gondola equipped with propellers to move the balloon and scientific instruments. The scientists would then observe how the material mixed and spread in the stratosphere and compare that to computer simulations.

The researchers established an oversight process for the planned field experiment. SCoPEx relied on organisations within Harvard University and Swedish Space Corporation to oversee management of initial environmental, health, and safety issues. Further, SCoPEx was overseen by an independent advisory committee.

SCoPEx faced several delays and the launch was ultimately scheduled for 2021 in Kiruna, Sweden. The experiment was however cancelled by the Swedish government. There has been speculation that the cancellation was at least in part due to objections by the Saami Council, an organisation that represents one of northern Europe’s Indigenous peoples.

Key Papers