UK Environmental news
 | Wednesday 17th June 2009 A New Technique to Measure Carbon Dioxide from Space The European Space agency in conjunction with INESC Porto has developed a new system for measuring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) from space. The system is designed for use in satellites and has hence been optimised for efficiency and a minimal foot print. Further more the system is a good all rounder with the ability to test wind speed, temperature and pressure. It can also be used to detect levels of other pollutants such as methane gas and ozone. A perfect tool for discovering the effects of global warming and climate change. The system employs optical fibre filters that can measure concentrations of pollutant gases close to the surface of the earth from an altitude of up to 400 kilometers. It filters reflected laser pulses to measure gas concentrations in the atmosphere. Traditionally, atmospheric balloons and specially equipped planes have been used to take such measurements but this requires multiple sampling missions and researchers must focus on specific areas. A satellite based system can measure any number of areas visible from its orbital path, then store and transmit the data back to earth for analysis. With many countries now signing up to emissions reduction programs and further agreements expected at the Copenhagen summit this year. This system provides an effective way of monitoring emission levels in specific geographical areas and can help both governments and environmental groups in detecting potential problems. |
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