Monday, March 11, 2024

MethaneSAT has been launched into our upper atmosphere to track methane emissions!

Happy Monday!  Welcome back to another week of ESC News Blog!

Did anyone happen to read The Houston Chronicle’s Business Section on March 6, 2024, their article titled, “Satellite to track methane leaks at drill sites”?  In the article, it goes on to speak about a satellite which was blasted into space last Monday from a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.  The satellite isn’t just any satellite it is a methane hunter called MethaneSAT, and it was launched into space to hold companies, governments, and anyone in between accountable for methane emissions, and any person who is interested to know may get on its website to see what the current methane levels are anywhere.  Methane gas is more damaging to the environment than carbon dioxide in the short term.  It has long been suspected companies and governments have been underreporting methane releasing into the environment, because they are allowed to self-report, but now this satellite will be able to show the specific amount and by whom due to the technology has advanced to a point in where it will be able to identify the source of a specific stream of methane.  In recent years, a couple studies have shown the discrepancies between what is being reported and what the true levels are, but the technologies were not as advanced as this new satellite.   MethaneSAT is flying about 370 miles in the thermosphere of the Earth’s upper atmosphere, and it will go around our planet fifteen times a day recording emission from everything down here in hope it will help us see the true damage of greenhouse gases.  The satellite will be another tool to help with the fight against climate change in our effort for a cleaner world.   If you would like to read more of The Houston Chronicle’s article, please click the link: MethaneSat launched to 'name and shame' emissions sources (houstonchronicle.com).

If you would like help in looking into how to update your terminal, so it runs more efficiently, safely, and with less emissions, contact us via email in the blog and check out our ESC's website!

Don’t forget the Houston Livestock and Rodeo is happening at the NRG Park and its worth a visit! Check out HLSR and its daily activities by clicking the link: The Official Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Website (rodeohouston.com).

We hope you enjoy your evening and a great rest of your week! 

**Disclaimer: You may be charged a fee to read The Houston Chronicle’ article. **