A state-of-the-art satellite designed to monitor methane emissions over California.
Sacramento is abuzz with news that Planet Labs is collaborating with the California Air Resource Board on a $95 million Satellite Data Purchase Program to track methane emissions. With the launch of the Tanager constellation of satellites, California seeks to enhance its monitoring capabilities and address climate change effectively. The partnership aims to merge advanced technology with governmental strategies, benefiting both the environment and public health. As the state takes robust steps to reduce methane emissions, this initiative exemplifies California’s commitment to global environmental leadership.
The vibrant city of Sacramento is buzzing with the news that Planet Labs has been chosen to partner with the California Air Resource Board (CARB) on a groundbreaking satellite program. This $95 million initiative, dubbed the Satellite Data Purchase Program (SDPP), is a key move in the state’s ongoing battle against climate change!
As the primary subcontractor for this ambitious project, Planet Labs will play a crucial role in supplying vital data to monitor methane emissions. This initiative is particularly important as methane is a potent greenhouse gas that poses substantial risks to the environment and human health. The project revolves around using advanced Tanager hyperspectral collections and other innovative data products to spotlight methane emissions not just in California, but around the globe!
The SDPP represents a fantastic collaboration between California, Carbon Mapper, Planet Labs, and various philanthropic partners. Together, they are establishing a robust framework to track methane emissions effectively. By harnessing commercial technology and merging it with government research and policy-making, this program aims to not only benefit taxpayers but also improve efficiency across key sectors like oil, gas, and agriculture. Isn’t that a win-win?
What’s even more exciting is that Planet Labs is set to expand its capabilities by launching four new satellites known as the Tanager constellation. These will include Tanager-1, which was successfully launched in August 2024, along with Tanager-2, Tanager-3, and Tanager-4. The stellar technology behind these satellites is designed for comprehensive hyperspectral data gathering critical for environmental applications.
With an aim to strengthen methane emissions detection, these satellites will not only enhance California’s monitoring but also bolster global efforts. The state is displaying a robust commitment to reducing methane emissions and addressing climate change, especially following various environmental actions taken against the backdrop of federal reforms in recent years.
Funding for this significant program comes from the state’s Cap-and-Trade scheme, which collects $100 million from polluters aimed at mitigating their emissions. As the plan unfolds, California is gearing up to introduce up to seven additional satellites to amplify its methane monitoring capabilities.
Data collected from these satellites is projected to be accessible to California state and local agencies by the summer of 2025. This initiative embodies California’s historical drive toward environmental protection and public health, encouraging a holistic approach to tackle environmental challenges.
In addition to its local implications, this satellite project is in alignment with California’s Global Methane Pledge, showcasing the state’s commitment to lead the charge against methane emissions not only domestically but on the worldwide stage. As the initiative gathers momentum, the potential to reduce methane emissions will contribute to the ongoing battle against climate change, benefitting the planet for generations to come.
With all these exciting developments in motion, Sacramento sounds the alarm of innovation and responsibility in protecting our environment. Here’s to a cleaner, greener California!
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