What Olympic athletes see that viewers don’t: Machine-made snow makes ski racing faster and riskier – and it’s everywhere

US Olympic skiers and scientists explain the sharp differences between natural snow and machine-made snow, from the science to the rising risk of crashes.

By: Keith Musselman, University of Colorado Boulder and Agnes Macy, University of Colorado Boulder, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 5, 2026

Words: 1,569

Last Updated: 1 month, 1 week ago

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By Keith Musselman, University of Colorado Boulder and Agnes Macy, University of Colorado Boulder

When viewers tune in to the 2026 Winter Olympics, they will see pristine, white slopes, groomed tracks and athletes racing over snow-covered landscapes, thanks in part to a storm that blanketed the mountain venues of the Italian Alps with fresh powder just in time.

But at lower elevations, where cross-country and other events are held, athletes and organizers have been contending …

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