March 24, 2011: Qatar University Says It Can Build Artificial Clouds to Cool 2022 World Cup

An artist’s rendition of Qatar’s proposed ‘artificial cloud’ system. [Source: TechFever (.net)]Scientists at Qatar University say they have developed artificial clouds, costing $500,000 each, to provide shade for stadia and training grounds at the 2022 World Cup. The work was done due to concerns over the fierce summer heat in the Gulf, which can reach up to 50 degrees in June and July. Saud Abdul Ghani, head of the mechanical and industrial engineering department at the university, says the clouds are made from a lightweight carbon structure and carry a giant envelope of material containing helium gas. Four solar-powered engines move the structure via remote control. [BBC, 3/24/2011]