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Summary In this episode, Sean Crowell interviews Dr. Kelsey Bilsback from PSE Healthy Energy, focusing on the intersection of air quality, health, and energy policy. Kelsey shares her journey from studying particle physics at CERN to her current role in air quality modeling, emphasizing the importance of understanding the health impacts of energy use, particularly in the oil and gas sector. The conversation delves into the Methane Risk Map, a tool developed by PSE Healthy Energy to assess the health risks associated with methane emissions from extraction facilities. Kelsey explains how the map combines satellite data with a gas composition database to quantify hazardous air pollutants and their potential health impacts on nearby communities. The discussion also highlights the challenges of ensuring that scientific research informs policy decisions, particularly regarding vulnerable populations. Kelsey emphasizes the need for better data availability and coordination among states to improve air quality regulations. The episode concludes with a look at future projects, including expanding the Methane Risk Map internationally and exploring the health impacts of landfills, underscoring the critical role of science in advocating for public health and environmental protection. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Kelsey Bilsback and Her Background 03:37 Transitioning to Air Quality and Health Research 09:48 The Methane Risk Map: A New Tool for Understanding Emissions 13:58 Health Risks Associated with Methane Emissions 21:47 Stakeholders and Community Engagement with the Methane Risk Map 26:42 Future Directions and Expanding the Methane Risk Map 32:41 Closing Thoughts and Importance of Data Accessibility

In this conversation, Sean Crowell and Pete Roos discuss the innovative technologies developed by Bridger Photonics for measuring greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane. They explore the power of LiDAR technology, the importance of accurate measurements, and the company's mission to simplify emissions reduction for the oil and gas industry. The discussion also touches on the significance of statistical analysis in emissions data, the evolution of emission factors, and the future of measurement technologies, including new developments and collaborations with regulatory bodies. Keywords Bridger Photonics, laser technology, emission reduction, LiDAR, greenhouse gases, environmental sensing, methane emissions, measurement accuracy, regulatory compliance, innovation

In this conversation, Tia Scarpelli discusses her journey in climate research, focusing on methane emissions from landfills and the complexities of solid waste management. She highlights the importance of understanding methane generation, the role of remote sensing in emission detection, and the challenges of measuring emissions accurately. The discussion also covers mitigation strategies for landfills and the need for effective stakeholder engagement to drive action towards reducing methane emissions. Keywords climate change, methane emissions, landfills, remote sensing, environmental engineering, solid waste management, greenhouse gases, emission detection, waste reduction, sustainability Chapters 03:30 The Importance of Landfills and Methane Emissions 12:09 Understanding Landfill Composition and Methane Generation 20:15 Modeling Methane Emissions from Landfills 25:30 Research and Measurement Challenges in Landfill Emissions 26:57 Measuring Greenhouse Gas Emissions 31:14 The Role of Remote Sensing in Emission Detection 35:24 Confidence in Remote Measurements 39:58 Mitigation Strategies for Landfills 46:56 CarbonMapper's Goals and Stakeholder Engagement

In this conversation, Sean Crowell interviews Aitor Morinigo, CEO of Satlantis, about the company's innovative approach to remote sensing and methane detection. Aitor shares his background in mechanical engineering and his journey from working in large corporations to leading a startup focused on satellite technology. The discussion covers the evolution of Satlantis, its partnerships with companies like Encino Environmental Services, and the importance of understanding customer needs in the oil and gas industry. Aitor also highlights the challenges of methane detection and the innovative technologies being developed to address these issues, like polarization sensitivity and higher spatial resolution in their next generation of sensors. Keywords Satlantis, remote sensing, methane detection, satellite technology, environmental monitoring, space industry, EO Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aitor Morinigo and Sattlantis 02:10 Aitor's Journey into Remote Sensing and Engineering 04:41 Transition from Traditional to New Space 07:01 The Importance of Business Acumen in Engineering 08:29 Overview of Sattlantis and Its Mission 10:13 Sattlantis' Shift to Data Solutions 12:58 Partnership with Encino and Industry Insights 15:21 Innovative Technology for Pipeline Monitoring 17:57 Multispectral Imaging and Its Advantages 20:10 Combining Technologies for Enhanced Detection 22:36 Business Model and Customer Engagement 25:09 Future Developments and Innovations at Sattlantis

In this episode, Sean leads us on a journey through the history of the Orbiting Carbon Observatory missions and the scientists whose work has utilized the data to find key insights about the natural and human-influenced carbon cycle. This episode is being released due to the status of these missions being "on the chopping block" in the proposed NASA budget for 2026 by the Trump administration. Keywords carbon dioxide, climate change, Orbiting Carbon Observatory, NASA, greenhouse gases, carbon cycle, emissions measurement, Earth science, environmental monitoring, climate policy

How do you detect methane leaks from space? And once you do - what comes next? In this episode, Dr. Ilse Aben shares the story of TROPOMI, the Dutch-led satellite instrument that scans the Earth daily for greenhouse gases. We explore how column measurements are turned into emissions, the power of'tip-and-cue' collaboration with commercial satellites, and how UN-backed systems are turning satellite data into climate action on the ground. • SRON Netherlands Institute for Space Research: https://www.sron.nl/ • TROPOMI: https://www.tropomi.eu/ • IMEO MARS Program: https://www.unep.org/explore-topics/climate-action/what-we-do/imeo • GHGSat: https://www.ghgsat.com/ • Global Methane Hub: https://www.globalmethanehub.org/ Episode Outline01:00–04:00 | Scientific Background04:00–09:15 | From SCIAMACHY to TROPOMI09:15–16:00 | How Satellites Measure Methane16:00–20:00 | Methane Sources Explained20:00–25:00 | Diffuse vs. Point Sources25:00–30:00 | Super Emitters and the Tip-and-Cue Model30:00–35:00 | IMEO & Global Mitigation via Satellites35:00–39:00 | Waste Emissions and Monitoring in the Global South39:00–43:00 | What’s Next in Satellite Methane Monitoring43:00–End | Final ReflectionsKeywords greenhouse gases, carbon sense, international cooperation, physics, spectroscopy, TROPOMI, satellite measurements

Summary This conversation delves into the insights from the EO Summit, focusing on greenhouse gas monitoring and pipeline methane emissions. It highlights the advancements in Earth observation technology, the importance of data integration, and the challenges faced in monitoring emissions effectively. The discussion emphasizes the need for trust in data, the role of incentives in emissions reduction, and the collaborative efforts required to address these environmental challenges. Chapters 00:00 Overview of the Earth Observation Summit 01:36 Insights on Greenhouse Gas Monitoring 05:52 Challenges in Pipeline Surveillance and Methane Emissions 08:21 The Role of Incentives in Emission Reduction 11:43 Exploring Carbon Footprint and Its Impact Keywords TerraWatch Space, EO data, greenhouse gas monitoring, methane emissions, pipeline surveillance, Earth observation, environmental science, data integration, climate change, emissions reduction

In this conversation, Dr. Heather Couture discusses her work with Climate TRACE, focusing on the use of AI and satellite data to estimate CO2 emissions from power plants. She explains the importance of granular data for individual power plants, the challenges of estimating emissions accurately, and the need for collaboration in improving emission monitoring techniques. The discussion covers various aspects of machine learning, satellite technology, and the complexities of emissions data. Keywords Climate TRACE, AI, CO2 emissions, power plants, satellite data, machine learning, greenhouse gases, emissions monitoring, environmental science, energy production

In this conversation, Sean Crowell and Aaron Davitt of WattTime discuss the intersection of climate data, remote sensing, and emission tracking. Aaron introduces the Climate Trace Coalition, which was founded by Watt Time and former US Vice President Al Gore to create comprehensive greenhouse gas emission inventories. Unlike the previous discussions of GHG remote sensing, this discussion highlights the use of different sets of satellite imagery (visible, thermal, SAR, etc) to locate sources for monitoring emissions across various sectors, the importance of data accessibility, and the collaborative efforts needed to improve emission estimates and mitigation strategies. This is Part 1 of a series on Climate TRACE. Key Topics: 04:24 Aaron Davitt's Journey in Climate Science 06:50 Understanding Watt Time and Its Role 08:54 Overview of Climate Trace Coalition 11:17 Utilizing Satellite Data for Emission Estimates 13:43 Sector-Specific Emission Monitoring 15:40 Innovative Approaches in Emission Estimation 18:24 Collaboration and Open Data in Climate Trace 20:36 Future Directions for Climate Trace Keywords: climate data, remote sensing, greenhouse gas emissions, satellite technology, Wattime, Climate Trace, emission inventory, environmental technology, data accessibility, collaboration, RMI

In this conversation, Aravind Ravichandran of TerraWatch, an industry insider for Earth Observation (EO), discusses the economic and public aspects of the industry, including challenges and opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of both government and commercial sectors in EO, the investment trends in satellite technologies, and the need for better data platforms and applications. The discussion also touches on the future of carbon monitoring and emission data, highlighting the significance of standards and collaboration in the field. Finally, Aravind introduces the EO Summit, aimed at bridging the gap between end users and technology providers. EO Summit: http://www.eosummit.com TerraWatch Space: http://www.terrawatchspace.com Keywords Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, Satellite Data, Environmental Impact, Commercial Sector, Government Role, Investment Trends, Carbon Monitoring, EO Summit, Data Platforms Chapters 00:00 Aravind's Journey into Earth Observation & TerraWatch 08:04 Understanding Earth Observation 16:21 Public Good vs. Commercial Data 20:31 Investment Trends in Earth Observation 27:57 Understanding Platforms vs. Applications in Remote Sensing 37:55 The Future of Carbon Monitoring and Business Models 50:39 Introducing the EO Summit: A Collaborative Forum for Earth Observation 55:51 Introduction to Carbon Sense Podcast 55:52 Exploring Carbon Footprint and Its Impact

This conversation delves into the ambitious GeoCARB project, which aimed to revolutionize carbon monitoring from space. Sean Crowell discusses the project's inception, technical achievements, and the challenges faced, including budget constraints and competition from international efforts. Despite the cancellation of the mission, the validated instrument remains ready for potential future opportunities, highlighting the resilience and persistence of the scientific community in the face of adversity. More about GeoCarb: http://www.ou.edu/geocarb Keywords GeoCARB, carbon monitoring, NASA, greenhouse gases, climate science, remote sensing, environmental data, carbon cycle, geostationary orbit

In this conversation, Dr. Sean Crowell interviews Yasjka Meijer about the advancements in remote sensing technology and its application in monitoring greenhouse gases. They discuss the importance of satellite data, the role of the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Copernicus program, and the challenges faced in accurately measuring CO2 and methane emissions. Yashka shares insights from his career, the significance of continuous data collection, and the need for collaboration between public and private sectors to address climate change effectively. The discussion emphasizes the urgency of climate action and the role individuals can play in mitigating emissions. Learn more about CO2M and Copernicus here: https://www.esa.int/Applications/Observing_the_Earth/Copernicus/Introducing_Copernicus https://www.eoportal.org/satellite-missions/co2m Keywords: remote sensing, greenhouse gases, satellite technology, climate monitoring, Copernicus program, CO2M mission, ESA, air quality, methane measurements, validation Takeaways - The Copernicus program aims to provide continuous data for climate monitoring. - Satellite technology is crucial for understanding greenhouse gas emissions. - Operational satellites must ensure data continuity and accuracy. - Engagement with the private sector enhances data utilization for climate action. - The CO2M mission focuses on measuring anthropogenic CO2 emissions. - Validation of satellite data is essential for accurate climate assessments. - The global stock take is a critical component of the Paris Agreement. - Public perception of climate change needs to shift towards urgency. - Individual actions can significantly contribute to reducing emissions. Outline 00:00 Introduction to Remote Sensing and Greenhouse Gases 00:56 New Chapter 02:56 Yasjka Meijer's Journey in Atmospheric Science 05:47 The Evolution of Copernicus Programs 08:03 The Role of ESA in Earth Observation 10:35 Engagement with the Private Sector in Copernicus 12:54 The Importance of Continuous Monitoring 15:46 CO2M: A New Era in Greenhouse Gas Monitoring 17:59 Challenges in Measuring CO2 and Methane 20:16 The Design and Functionality of CO2M Satellites 35:08 Building on Heritage: The Role of Mission Advisory Groups 37:54 Innovations in Spectrometer Design for CO2 and Methane Measurement 41:37 The Importance of NO2 in Emission Estimates 44:45 Addressing Aerosol Challenges in Satellite Observations 47:09 Data Products and Collaboration in Greenhouse Gas Monitoring 50:32 The Role of Copernicus in Climate Monitoring 53:30 Validation and Accuracy in Satellite Measurements 56:56 International Collaboration for Greenhouse Gas Monitoring 59:30 The Role of SEOS in Climate Observations 01:05:02 Personal Contributions to Climate Action 01:08:37 The Urgency of Climate Change and Individual Responsibility 01:17:55 Introduction to Carbon Sense Podcast 01:17:56 Exploring Carbon Footprint and Its Impact

In this conversation, Sean Crowell interviews J-F Gauthier, Vice President of GHGSat, about the company's mission to monitor greenhouse gas emissions using satellite technology. J-F shares his unique journey into the field of remote sensing, the evolution of GHGSat, and the challenges faced by commercial entities in this space. The discussion covers the importance of accurate emission detection, collaboration within the remote sensing community, and the future goals of GHGSat, including the ambition to monitor every emitter globally on a daily basis. J-F emphasizes the need for actionable data to drive environmental change and the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders in the fight against climate change. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to GHG-Sat and Its Mission 00:20 JF Gauthier's Background and Career Path 03:47 The Genesis of GHG-Sat and Its Technology 06:38 Current Constellation and Future Plans 08:30 Commercial Challenges in Methane Monitoring 12:23 Understanding GHG-Sat's Detection Capabilities 15:56 Validation Efforts and Transparency in Data 21:54 Collaboration and Standardization in the Industry 25:13 Uncertainty in Measurements and Its Implications 25:50 Understanding False Positives in Methane Detection 27:42 The Role of Wind in Emission Measurements 29:52 Source Attribution Challenges in Emission Data 32:46 Human Oversight in Automated Data Analysis 34:14 Customer Interaction and Data Delivery 39:53 Future Goals for GHGSat 44:40 Challenges in CO2 Measurement 49:36 The Importance of Actionable Data Keywords GHGSat, remote sensing, greenhouse gases, methane detection, CO2 monitoring, satellite technology, environmental impact, emissions measurement, climate change, industrial emissions White paper on GHGSat Validation: https://www.ghgsat.com/en/scientific-publications/validation-and-metrics-for-emissions-detection-by-satellite/

In this conversation, Sean Crowell and Dan Cusworth discuss the development and impact of CarbonMapper, a technology aimed at mitigating methane emissions through advanced remote sensing techniques. They explore the technological innovations that enable CarbonMapper, the importance of data transparency, and the collaboration with industry to address emissions. The conversation also touches on regulatory challenges and the future direction of CarbonMapper's mission to provide accessible data for emission mitigation globally. ====================== Check out the CarbonMapper data portal to learn more and find methane sources: https://data.carbonmapper.org Stanford single blind methane emission study: https://doi.org/10.5194/amt-17-765-2024 Measurements mentioned: AVIRIS: https://aviris.jpl.nasa.gov/ EMIT: https://earth.jpl.nasa.gov/emit/ EnMAP: https://www.enmap.org/ Hyperion: https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/EO1Tenth/page3.php PRISMA: https://www.eoportal.org/satellite-missions/prisma-hyperspectral

In this episode, Dr. Sean Crowell goes it alone to help boil down the first few episodes and give a high level summary on the fundamentals of carbon emissions and how we measure them from space.