Carbon Mapper Coalition launches Tanager-1 satellite to drive transparency of methane and CO2 super-emitters and prompt global action

Core Insights - The Tanager-1 satellite aims to enhance transparency regarding methane super-emitters by identifying leaks, enabling immediate societal action to mitigate emissions [1][2][3] - The initiative is a collaboration among various organizations, including Carbon Mapper, JPL, Planet Labs, and philanthropic supporters, to achieve significant emission reduction goals [1][2][8] Emission Monitoring and Impact - Tanager-1 will focus on detecting methane super-emitters, which are facilities emitting over 100 kilograms of methane per hour, across sectors like fossil fuels, waste, and agriculture [3][4] - Methane is significantly more potent than CO2 in terms of heat retention, contributing to approximately 30% of global temperature rise, making its mitigation crucial for climate change efforts [2][4] Technological Advancements - The satellite will provide high-resolution observations that empower various stakeholders, including industry and policymakers, to take effective actions against emissions [3][5] - The technology used in Tanager-1 is expected to enhance the ability to locate and address previously unknown super-emitting events, leading to substantial emission reductions [4][5] Data Accessibility and Public Engagement - Carbon Mapper's mission includes making methane and CO2 data publicly accessible, which will help raise awareness and prompt mitigation actions [6][8] - The organization aims to develop a full constellation of satellites to monitor and track up to 90% of super-emitting sources globally, providing daily data [4][8]