Immature biosphere to a mature technosphere (IMAGE)
Caption
The researchers posit four stages of Earth’s past and possible future to illustrate how planetary intelligence might play a role in humanity’s long-term future. Right now, Earth is an "immature technosphere" because the majority of energy and technology usage involves degrading Earth's systems, such as the atmosphere. To survive as a species, we must aim to be a "mature technosphere," says University of Rochester astrophysicist Adam Frank, with technological systems that benefit the entire planet.
Credit
University of Rochester illustration / Michael Osadciw
Usage Restrictions
Must include credit
License
Original content