Satellites Capable Of Detecting Methane Emissions Will Hold Polluters Accountable

Satellites can now detect the sources of methane leaks. And now, the tech will be equipped in two satellites (set to launch later) in hopes of ushering in a new era in climate accountability.

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Using satellites to track methane leaks

Between 2016 and 2021, NASA worked with Southern California Gas Company to identify methane leaks using aeroplanes equipped with high-resolution remote sensors, Business Insider reported.

Owing to this, the amount of damaging methane gas that was being expelled into space was immediately controlled. Today's satellites are extremely tech-savvy - for starters, satellites can now find the exact source location of a methane leak. Complemented by artificial intelligence, computers can then calculate the exact degree of emissions that are being expelled into Earth's atmosphere. Groundbreaking, right?

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Also read: Scientists Can Destroy 99% Of Methane-Ammonia Formed In Farms With Plasma Lightning

Only, with this capability becoming the norm, countries that do little to fix climate concerns will come under direct radar of the satellites. While the satellites cannot force elected representatives to take action, they can for sure start a new era in terms of accountability for the damage done.

This could also come in handy for companies to fix leaks faster. At the same time, it could also expose countries and companies that may be underreporting their emissions.

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Why methane?

Methane is an extremely polluting gas. For starters, it warms the Earth 80 times faster than carbon dioxide. It only stays in the atmosphere for 10 years but the damage during this time is unparalleled.

A company called Carbon Mapper is behind the upcoming launch of devices that will detect methane leaks from space. While scientists have been using data from satellites to identify methane leaks, new technology can make the detection more accurate. Even then, the research can take some time.

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Also read: Researchers Are Now Tracking Methane Produced By Cow Burps From Space

What do you think about using the power of satellites in space to hold countries and companies accountable for methane leaks? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.

References

Boudreau, C. (2022, July 3). Satellites can now find the sources of methane leaks. The tech will reshape global climate accountability. Business Insider.