Technology9/30/2025PCWorld

Earth is getting darker, NASA warns. What does that mean for us?

Earth is getting darker, NASA warns. What does that mean for us?

Here is a 204-word summary of the key points from the news article: NASA data shows the Earth is reflecting less sunlight back into space, especially in the Northern Hemisphere, over the past 20 years. Analysis of satellite data from the last 24 years reveals that the planet's overall albedo, or reflectivity, has decreased, with both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres absorbing more solar radiation. The decline in reflectivity amounts to an increase of 0.83 watts per square meter per decade, with the Northern Hemisphere absorbing an additional 0.34 watts per square meter. While ocean and air currents previously helped equalize this imbalance, current measurements indicate this balancing mechanism is being disrupted. Several factors are contributing to the reduced reflection, including the shrinking of ice and snow cover in the Arctic, decreases in air pollution and suspended aerosols leading to less cloud formation, and the short-term effects of events like bushfires and volcanic eruptions in the Southern Hemisphere. The shift in Earth's reflectivity has significant implications for global climate, as the planet is now storing more energy long-term, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. This could lead to additional warming in regions like Europe and North America, underscoring the importance of incorporating these changes into climate models.

Source: For the complete article, please visit the original source link below.

Source: PCWorldEnhanced summary
Share:

Related Articles

U.S. government takes stake in Canadian lithium miner and its Nevada mining project
💻 Technology4h ago1 min read

U.S. government takes stake in Canadian lithium miner and its Nevada mining project

All hail the new Fat Bear Champion
💻 Technology4h ago1 min read

All hail the new Fat Bear Champion

AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2: I compared the two models, and here's who should upgrade
💻 Technology4h ago1 min read

AirPods Pro 3 vs. AirPods Pro 2: I compared the two models, and here's who should upgrade

I replaced my AirPods Max with the AirPods Pro 3 for flights, and it's been a game-changer
💻 Technology4h ago1 min read

I replaced my AirPods Max with the AirPods Pro 3 for flights, and it's been a game-changer

Amazon event 2025 live: Reactions to Echo Dot, Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, Fire TV, more
💻 Technology4h ago1 min read

Amazon event 2025 live: Reactions to Echo Dot, Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, Fire TV, more

Why this Sony speaker has effectively replaced every other portable audio gear for me
💻 Technology4h ago1 min read

Why this Sony speaker has effectively replaced every other portable audio gear for me