In what can only be called cool technology, scientists in Qatar say they’ve created artificial clouds to deal with the intense heat for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
When Qatar won their bid to host the world’s biggest sporting event in December 2010, many people stated concern for players and spectators because of the intense temperatures in the Gulf. During June and July when the World Cup usually takes place, temperatures can reach 50C.
Originally, FIFA president Sepp Blatter said the 2022 World Cup in Qatar would be moved to the winter months because of the heat. Now it looks like this isn’t going to be necessary.
The so-called clouds, which look like large, flat spaceships, carry a large amount of helium gas inside a light carbon structure. Four solar-powered engines move the clouds over the stadium or training area via remote control where they hoover in place creating shade.
When the sun shifts so does the cloud insuring the shade throughout the day.
Each cloud costs roughly $500,000 to produce. There are no reports on how many would be needed for the duration of the event.
Solar powered air conditioning units are also being developed for the Qatar World Cup stadiums.
Even with the cool technology FIFPro, the union backing players, thinks the event should be pushed to the winter months.
Qatar beat out Japan, South Korea, Australia and the U.S. when they won they’re bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
