Groundbreaking Methane-Tracking Satellite Set for Launch by Climate Coalition
A coalition backed by prominent philanthropists is launching a satellite to detect methane leaks from space. This NASA-developed technology aims to address climate change by identifying and mitigating emissions sources.
In a significant step towards combating climate change, a coalition utilizing NASA-developed technology is set to launch a pioneering satellite on August 16, 2024. The Tanager-1 satellite, part of the Carbon Mapper Coalition's initiative, will employ advanced imaging capabilities to identify methane leaks from individual facilities such as oil refineries and landfills.
The Carbon Mapper Coalition, established in 2023, brings together a diverse group of organizations and philanthropists. Members include NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Planet Labs, RMI, and Arizona State University. Financial support comes from notable entities such as the High Tide Foundation, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and the Grantham Foundation for the Protection of the Environment.
This groundbreaking project aims to provide crucial data for addressing one of the most potent greenhouse gases. Methane is approximately 25 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. The Tanager-1 satellite's ability to pinpoint specific sources of methane emissions will enable industries to locate and repair leaks promptly.
The coalition plans to expand its satellite network, potentially monitoring up to 90% of the world's large methane plumes daily. This comprehensive coverage will significantly enhance our understanding of global methane emissions and support targeted mitigation efforts.
Richard Lawrence, founder of High Tide Foundation, emphasized the importance of this initiative:
"There is more momentum than ever to act on climate. But a lack of public and private investment in global methane and CO2 monitoring has left gaps that leave many emissions untracked and unaddressed."
The launch of Tanager-1 is scheduled aboard the SpaceX Transporter-11 Rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The 53-minute launch window opens at 11:20 a.m. local time (1820 GMT) on August 16, 2024.
This satellite launch represents a significant milestone in the fight against climate change, combining cutting-edge technology with collaborative efforts from both public and private sectors. By providing accurate, real-time data on methane emissions, the Carbon Mapper Coalition aims to empower industries and policymakers to take swift and effective action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
