Using Radiowaves To Diagnose Climate Issues

The atmosphere has a message for us and it's possible that we may be able to receive it thanks to the 6G networks of the future. This next-generation form of telecommunications is already being eyed for cellular deployment -- but its range from 100 GHz into the terahertz frequencies positions it for another - unintended -- use.

According to an article in the IEEE Spectrum, waves utilized by 6G are easily absorbed by gases in the atmosphere. As such, scientists may be able to use the radiowaves to discern what kind of atmospheric gases are present - especially the kind that imperil the well-being of the planet and those who live on it. The Spectrum article quoted from a research paper in the journal, IEEE Network, in which Boston researcher Josep Jornet suggests that because different molecules absorb electromagnetic radiation differently, scientists can employ 6G transmissions in much the same way spectroscopy is used: to identify which molecules are present and what their concentration is. Jornet, in fact, calls it "over-the-air spectroscopy.”

Although 6G networks are not yet ready for prime time, the study's authors believe a dual-purpose 6G network of the future could have immense benefits.