Publications Details

Point source methane emissions measurement with compact micro-LiDAR and Push broom spectrometer

Abstract

In light of escalating climate concerns, precise and timely monitoring of greenhouse gases (GHGs), specifically carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), is increasingly critical. AIRMO is pioneering a small satellite-based greenhouse gas emissions monitoring system designed to deliver high-resolution, high sensitivity data essential for effective climate action. The system integrates three co-located instruments: a pushbroom SWIR spectrometer, a micro-LiDAR, and an RGB camera, housed within a compact satellite platform. This configuration not only enhances measurement accuracy but also addresses atmospheric interferences such as local winds, aerosols, and cloud impacts on GHG flux assessments. The SWIR spectrometer, optimized for a 6U volume, incorporates freeform optics to maximize spatial resolution over a 20 km field of view. The micro-LiDAR, instrumental in improving data quality, provides aerosol and boundary layer data, enhancing the usability and accuracy of emission measurements. In orbit demonstration mission will focus on CH4 detection quantification, with wind measurement capabilities planned for future enhancements. This approach enables precise localization of GHG sources with spatial resolution capabilities down to 50 meters. Temporal resolution with a revisit rate of several hours with complete constellation deployment ensures timely data for tracking emission changes. High spectral sensitivity in the SWIR range, crucial for detecting specific GHG absorption bands. The accuracy of methane measurements within <4ppb and CO2 within <2 ppm, offering unprecedented precision in GHG quantification. Several airborne campaigns have proved the instruments’ performance, supporting the system's development. This presentation will outline the mission's status, focusing on critical payload developments, performance benchmarks, and anticipated enhancements in GHG monitoring capabilities.

Publication year
2024
Research Areas
Earth Observation
Publisher
Space Research Conference
Research Type
Conference Contribution
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