MethaneSat, a satellite designed to monitor global methane emissions more effectively, has lost power since June 20th and is likely not recoverable. It was intended to detect methane leaks from space, providing essential data for accountability in the fossil fuel industry. The satellite, costing $88 million and supported by a $100 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund, could survey an area in 20 seconds, compared to the two hours required for aircraft monitoring. Prior to MethaneSat, methane measurements indicated actual US emissions were 60 percent above EPA estimates for 2012-2018 due to the lack of effective tracking.
MethaneSat was designed to detect methane leaks from space, providing essential data to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for emissions that significantly contribute to climate change.
The satellite lost power on June 20th and is considered likely not recoverable, jeopardizing a mission intended to improve accountability for methane emissions.
The Environmental Defense Fund estimated US methane emissions were 60 percent higher between 2012 and 2018 than reported by the Environmental Protection Agency, highlighting the urgent need for accurate monitoring.
Backed by significant funding from the Bezos Earth Fund, MethaneSat aimed to rapidly identify leaks in a manner far more efficient than ground-based monitoring.
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