In the study, the group of researchers analysed different properties of dust particles, qualities of dust and the orbits that would be best suited for shading Earth. The team found that launching dust from Earth to a way station at the "Lagrange Point" between Earth and the sun would be most effective but would require an astronomical cost and effort.

The team proposes moondust as an alternative, arguing that lunar dust launched from the moon could be a low-cost and effective way to shade the Earth. The authors found that when launched precisely, the dust would follow a path between Earth and the sun, effectively creating shade, at least for a while.

The sun's radiation naturally disperses the dust particles throughout the solar system, meaning the sun shield is temporary and particles do not fall onto Earth.