Based on NASA's satellite observations, Earth has started reflecting less sunlight over the past 24 years. This “dimming” tendency is particularly noticeable in the Northern Hemisphere and is considered a serious sign of climate change.
Modern.az reports, citing foreign media, that the research was conducted within the framework of the “Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System” (CERES) project.
Scientists note that the balance between incoming and reflected energies on Earth – the radiation budget – is changing. The disruption of this balance means the planet is accumulating more heat.
According to experts, the melting of snow and ice, the decrease in aerosol quantities, and changes in cloud structure are the main factors influencing this process.
Specifically, in the Northern Hemisphere, the reduction in air pollution and the formation of less reflective clouds have caused Earth to absorb more heat. In the Southern Hemisphere, however, increased aerosol levels due to forest fires and volcanic eruptions have, on the contrary, slightly increased light reflection.
Scientists warn that these changes require a re-evaluation of climate models. If this trend continues, Earth will accumulate more heat, and climate change will occur more rapidly.
