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Last broadcast on Mon, 15 Jun 2009, 21:00 on BBC Radio 4.
Synopsis
Richard Hollingham investigates if bacteria in the atmosphere can influence the weather and meets some of the scientists who are working in what has been called 'bioprecipitation'.
He talks to David Sands from Montana University, who coined the term, and visits labs in Avignon and London where researchers are trying to understand more about the impact of bacterial particles on our weather. If the complexities of bioprecipitation can be unravelled, it might be possible to turn the process to our advantage and use these extraordinary bacteria to encourage rainfall in drought-affected regions of the world.
An experiment being conducted by the French National Research Institute for Agriculture
Two air samplers that are checking the air at different heights. From left to right, presenter Richard Hollingham with scientists Cindy Morris and Christel Leyronas.
Broadcast
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Mon 15 Jun 200921:00
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