Daily Episode 270 - Wargaming the Dimming of the Sun
Oct 26, 2026 · 18m
Summary
This episode analyzes a Wired article detailing a geopolitical wargame simulation of solar geoengineering, which revealed that strategic competition and distrust between the U.S. and China would likely prevent international cooperation. The simulation highlighted how fossil fuel interests and national security concerns could drive a dangerous arms race, with science largely ignored in favor of political posturing.
Topics discussed
Welcome to new listeners and Patreon support
Sponsorships: Zinn, HERS, and Fanatic Sportsbook
Introduction to the solar geoengineering wargame
The Wired article and simulation setup details
Risks, commercial interest, and timeline of geoengineering
Game mechanics and initial US-China tensions
Disinformation, failed talks, and mutual suspicion
Arms race dynamics and the marginalization of science
Sponsorships: Zinn and HERS weight loss
Fossil fuel industry interference in the simulation
Corey's commentary on greenwashing and geoengineering
Fossil fuel NGO tactics and simulation conclusions
Real-world developments and climate disasters
Colleen Golgia's reaction and local adaptation plans
Corey's analysis: geopolitics, AI, and political reality
Sponsorships and closing remarks
Listen ad-free on Castria