China uses drones to create artificial snow in Kunlun Mountains

For the first time, China used drones to encourage the formation of artificial snow in the Kunlun Mountains, in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The experiment, carried out on Friday, involved releasing special particles into the atmosphere to turn moisture into snow. This process, known as climate modification, is a strategy to increase water resources in areas essential for supply.

The operation took place at an altitude of 3,500 meters, where the low oxygen level makes the work more challenging. To address this, drones have been equipped with devices that release particles called catalysts through smoke flames. These particles help to condense the water vapor present in the air, forming ice crystals that fall like snow. In the experiment, the drones reached altitudes of up to 4,200 meters, also testing high-precision sensors and equipment for real-time monitoring.

Since the beginning of 2024, the Xinjiang weather modification center has carried out 23 similar operations, accumulating 46 flight hours with large and medium-sized drones. These tests laid the foundation for successful artificial snowmaking in the Kunlun Mountains, a vital water supply region in western China. The technology can help replenish rivers, aquifers and reservoirs, benefiting agriculture, industry and residential use.

In addition to the water impact, the increase in artificial snow brings environmental benefits, such as improving desert ecosystems, increasing vegetation cover and reducing dust in the atmosphere.