Between the Sun and Us: Expert perceptions on the engineering, policy, and deep uncertainties of space-based solar geoengineering

Space-based geoengineering is gaining attention, if not necessarily traction, as a possible “break the
glass” solution to mitigate the worst impacts of climate change and facilitate the transition to a low-carbon
future. Though still on the periphery of discussions around climate mitigation and geoengineering, space-based
methods that would deflect or block incoming sunlight, and thereby diminish how much radiation ultimately
reaches the Earth, could offer advantages, notably, by avoiding the need for difficult trade-offs and decisions in
terms of land and resource use on Earth. Aside from a few specialist-oriented studies, the literature on spacebased geoengineering remains limited. In this study, we utilize a large and diverse expert-interview exercise
(N=125) to provide a first critical examination of the promise and relevance of space-based geoengineering for
tackling climate change, including perhaps as a source of renewable energy, its feasibility and prospective risks,
as well as key actors and issues related to commercialization and governance. To our knowledge, no other study
has employed empirical data of any kind to examine perceptions of space-based geoengineering, let alone in
relation to other kinds of climate-intervention technologies. Not only does the current research represent the
first of its kind, it also provides a foundation for more informed, comprehensive deliberations around this
interesting, possibly even necessary solution to climate change