Wilkes Center Speaker Series: Ben Bromley, Dust as a Solar Shield
Ben Bromley is a theoretical and computational astrophysicist in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Utah.
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.…
Campus Locations: Skaggs, L. S. Applied Science Building (LSSB). Contact Name: Ross Chambless. Contact Email: ross.chambless@utah.edu. Campus Wide Event: Yes.
Thursday, September 4, 2025, 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM.
For more info visit wilkescenter.utah.edu. STEM Safety Day
Staff, faculty and students are invited to University of Utah STEM Safety Day.
This annual event will be held on Friday, September 5. It is completely free to register, and participants can select individual sessions throughout the day that fit with their teaching, work and/or research schedules. With sessions such as:
Hands-on fire extinguisher training with a live fire
Medical and ADA Accommodations in Laboratory Environments
Mental health crisis de-escalation training
Flu and COVID Shots
Research Mentoring
And much, MUCH more,
Everyone will be able to find something that is relevant to their area of work. This is a campus-wide event, and space is limited. Register at https://science.utah.edu/events/safety-day.
Campus Locations: Alumni House - Eccles (ALUMNI). Contact Name: David Thomas. Contact Email: d.r.thomas@utah.edu. Campus Wide Event: Yes.
Friday, September 5, 2025.
For more info visit science.utah.edu. 2025 Wilkes Climate Launch Prize Announcement
Join us for a reception with the Wilkes Center team and campus partners as we announce the winner and top finalists for the $250,000 Launch Prize to accelerate solutions to climate change.
Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments provided.
Free parking available on Presidents Circle and Lot 2
Map and RSVP here.
Campus Locations: Skaggs, L. S. Applied Science Building (LSSB). Contact Name: Ross Chambless. Contact Email: ross.chambless@utah.edu. Campus Wide Event: Yes.
Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM.
For more info visit wilkescenter.utah.edu.