The MethaneSAT, a satellite specifically designed to monitor methane emissions, has successfully been launched into Earth’s orbit from a SpaceX rocket. The project was kick-started in 2015 under the watchful eye of Harvard University professor, Steven Wofsy.
Funded by the Environmental Defense Fund, this unique satellite will keep a close eye on emissions from oil and gas fields across the globe, providing the public with near real-time data. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first satellite owned by an environmental non-profit organization.
Climate change is an evolving concern for our planet, and methane plays a significant role in this issue, accounting for about 30% of current warming. The primary contributors to methane emissions are the oil and gas sector and agriculture, which makes monitoring these areas crucial to understanding and combating the problem.
The MethaneSAT project is a result of the collaborative efforts of several organizations including Harvard University, BAE Systems, the Harvard and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, along with other partners. The New Zealand Space Agency will manage the operations of the satellite, while data dissemination will be aided by Google.
One of the significant advantages of MethaneSAT is its ability to cover larger areas in a shorter period. It is expected to observe emissions from over 80% of global oil and gas production, thereby offering valuable data to gas consumers and aiding in the enforcement of emission regulations.
The satellite’s wide reach will extend to areas supplying 80% of the world’s natural gas, providing a more comprehensive view of global methane emissions. This information will be invaluable in shaping government efforts and putting pressure on companies to take necessary action.
The data collected by MethaneSAT will play a crucial role in understanding the impact of methane on global warming. Methane, which is a byproduct of industrial activities like oil and gas production, potentially accounts for up to 30% of the planet’s warming.
The data generated by MethaneSAT will be used independently to verify industry reports and enforce regulations on fossil fuel companies. This will prove vital in implementing strategies to reduce methane emissions, adhering to new standards, and formulating policies addressing climate change. This marks a significant step towards safeguarding our planet for future generations.
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