A new perspective: How Earth observation helps tackle global challenges
ADVERTISEMENT
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik I, the world's first artificial satellite, in 1957, forever changing history.
The satellite remained in orbit until January 1958. It provided valuable data on atmospheric density and served as a crucial test for future space technologies.
Nearly seven decades later, satellites have become an integral part of our daily lives, powering global positioning systems (GPS), providing weather forecasting, and monitoring climate change.
Their multiple applications have drawn interest from private companies and public administrations that are interested in building policies and technologies from satellite data.
The European Union, for instance, has Copernicus, the largest Earth observation programme in the world.
Led by the European Commission in partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA), Copernicus was established in 2014 and now provides freely accessible data.
But how does Earth observation really work? And what challenges can it help us solve? To answer these questions, Euronews Tech Talks spoke with Jean-Christophe Gros, the EU programme coordinator at the European Space Agency (ESA).
What is Earth observation?
Earth observation is the practice of studying our planet from space using satellites, which can be launched both in Earth's orbit and in polar orbit.
Gros explained that Earth observation relies on various techniques. These include radar satellites, which can see through the clouds and operate at night; optical satellites, which capture high-resolution images of the Earth's surface; and satellites with spectrometers, which are crucial for atmospheric monitoring.
All these technologies are key to looking at the Earth from a different perspective and can help us address the most pressing challenges of our time.
For instance, satellite imagery can monitor rising sea levels and predict and track floods, landslides and wildfires.
'We are also doing a lot of monitoring in terms of (...) the concrete impact on populations. Where to build a city, where not to build a city, if we can anticipate that this part of the map will be flooded or not,' Gros said.
Images from the US Landsat-8 satellite illustrate the scale of the Valencia disaster, with images from 8 to 30 October.
USGS, processed by ESA
Earth observation and greenhouse gas emissions
Earth observation also plays a role in detecting greenhouse gases, gases that absorb Earth's radiation and reflect it back, contributing to the rise in global temperatures.
Methane is one of these gases. Colourless and odourless, it is produced by both natural and human activities, and it accounts for
around 30%
of the rise in global temperatures since the Industrial Revolution.
Experts say satellites can help to spot methane leaks.
ADVERTISEMENT
For instance, in March 2023, Emily Dowd spotted a methane leak in the area of Cheltenham, in the United Kingdom. The then PhD researcher was observing a landfill near the town via a GhGSat satellite when she noticed the leak, which came from a factory.
'(Methane) has a 20-year global warming potential, which is 82 times greater than carbon dioxide. Being able to find gas leaks or leaks of methane is important for reducing human impact on climate change,' Dowd told Euronews Next.
To identify the methane leak, Dowd used GHGSat, a constellation of satellites of a Canadian data company capable of detecting methane with a high spatial resolution of 25 metres.
GhGSat receives data from other satellites like Copernicus' Sentinel 5P, designed to monitor a wide range of gases on a global scale.
ADVERTISEMENT
Global overview showing the location and magnitude of all 2974 methane super-emitter plumes detected in 2021 using the Copernicus Sentinel-5P Tropomi instrument
ESA
On top of methane, ESA is working on its mission to monitor and track carbon dioxide with the project CO2M.
CO2M is planned as a three-satellite mission to measure the greenhouse gas with very detailed images, and its first satellite is expected to be launched in 2025.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sustainability Times
20 hours ago
- Sustainability Times
'Aliens Are Sending Signals': This Deep Space Object Blasts X-Rays Every 44 Minutes and NASA Can't Stop It
IN A NUTSHELL 🌌 ASKAP J1832−091 is a mysterious object in the Milky Way, emitting X-rays and radio waves every 44 minutes. is a mysterious object in the Milky Way, emitting X-rays and radio waves every 44 minutes. 🔭 Discovered accidentally, this phenomenon challenges scientists with its synchronized emissions and silent phases. 🧑🔬 Researchers speculate it could be a highly magnetized neutron star or white dwarf, but an entirely new entity is not ruled out. 📡 The discovery underscores the importance of continuous observation and international collaboration in astronomical research. Amidst the vast expanse of our galaxy, a celestial enigma has captured the attention of the scientific community. This mysterious object, discovered by chance, emits X-rays and radio waves at precise intervals of 44 minutes. The origin and nature of this phenomenon remain shrouded in mystery, fueling speculation and fascination among astronomers worldwide. Detected within the heart of the Milky Way, this object has prompted a flurry of research, as experts strive to unravel its secrets and understand its implications for our understanding of the universe. A Celestial Phenomenon in the Heart of the Milky Way Located approximately 9,300 miles from Earth, this celestial object emits synchronized radio signals and X-rays every 44 minutes, a discovery that defies comprehension. A team of international astronomers made this observation using a combination of data from major NASA instruments and ground-based observatories. The Chandra X-ray Observatory, the Spitzer Space Telescope for infrared, and the South African MeerKAT radio telescope played pivotal roles in this groundbreaking discovery. The newly identified object, named ASKAP J1832−091, was detected during a month-long phase of intense activity. During this period, it emitted X-rays and radio waves in a synchronized manner, a behavior never before observed for this type of object. Outside of this hyperactive phase, the object falls into complete silence, with no detectable emissions. Scientists remain uncertain whether it is a dead star, a binary star system, or an entirely new entity. Ziteng Andy Wang, a researcher at Curtin University in Australia and the study's lead author, suggests that the object could be a highly magnetized neutron star or white dwarf. However, he does not rule out the possibility of something radically new. 'Einstein Was Right All Along': This Atomic Clock on the ISS Is Putting General Relativity to Its Ultimate Test A Challenge for Modern Science The discovery of ASKAP J1832−091 was a serendipitous event. Initially, the Chandra telescope was observing the remnants of a supernova when it accidentally picked up the X-ray emissions from this enigmatic object. This marks the first detection of X-rays from a 'long-period radio transient,' a rare class of objects that have puzzled astronomers for years. The exact distance of the object remains uncertain, complicating efforts to determine whether it is related to the observed supernova remnant or if it exists independently in a dense region filled with stars, gas, and dust. For researchers, this discovery opens two major possibilities: they are either witnessing an entirely unknown phenomenon or observing a previously cataloged object from a new perspective. 'Our discovery does not solve the mystery; it deepens it,' admits Wang. This brief period of activity suggests that other similar phenomena might exist but go unnoticed due to a lack of continuous observation. 'They Morph Like Liquid Metal': Scientists Reveal Mini-Robot Swarm That Shape-Shifts Just Like in Sci-Fi Movies Since its launch in 1999, the Chandra telescope has been scrutinizing the universe's most energetic objects. With ASKAP J1832−091, a new chapter unfolds for space research. The study of these mysterious objects could revolutionize our understanding of the universe and its extreme phenomena. Implications for Astronomical Research The unexpected discovery of ASKAP J1832−091 has significant implications for astronomical research. It highlights the importance of continuous observation and the potential for unforeseen phenomena lurking in the cosmos. As astronomers delve deeper into this mystery, they are reminded of the vast unknowns that still exist in our universe. This discovery also underscores the critical role of international collaboration in advancing our understanding of space. The combined efforts of multiple observatories and institutions have made it possible to detect and analyze such elusive phenomena. As technology advances, we can expect even more breakthroughs in our quest to understand the universe's complexities. 'An Unimaginable Fortune': 55 Billion Tons of Iron Found in Secret Reserve Worth Over $4 Trillion Set to Disrupt Global Markets Furthermore, the identification of ASKAP J1832−091 may lead to the development of new theoretical models to explain such phenomena. By expanding our knowledge of celestial objects, we can refine our existing theories and potentially uncover new aspects of astrophysics that challenge current paradigms. The Future of Celestial Discovery As the scientific community eagerly awaits further data, the 44-minute cosmic rhythm of ASKAP J1832−091 keeps them on edge, hoping to one day unveil the secret of this object that defies all known classifications. The mystery surrounding this object serves as a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the endless opportunities for discovery. In the coming years, advancements in technology and observation techniques may provide the tools needed to uncover more about this enigmatic object and others like it. As astronomers continue to explore the cosmos, they are driven by the excitement of potential discoveries that could reshape our understanding of the universe. Will the continued study of ASKAP J1832−091 lead to groundbreaking insights that change our perception of the cosmos, or will it reveal even more mysteries waiting to be unraveled? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.4/5 (21)
Sustainability Times
4 days ago
- Sustainability Times
'NASA Freezes Human Aging': This Stunning Discovery Could Delay Death and Revolutionize Deep Space Survival Forever
IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 Researchers discover that necrosis —a chaotic form of cell death—holds the key to enhancing human aging and space travel. —a chaotic form of cell death—holds the key to enhancing human aging and space travel. 🧬 Unlike programmed cell death, necrosis is messy and contagious , contributing to chronic diseases like Alzheimer's and cardiovascular decline. , contributing to chronic diseases like Alzheimer's and cardiovascular decline. 🔬 Targeting necrosis could unlock new treatments for age-related diseases by breaking destructive cycles and allowing for healthy cell function. 🌌 Addressing necrosis in space could mitigate accelerated aging effects on astronauts, paving the way for longer missions and deeper exploration. In a groundbreaking study, scientists have uncovered the potential role of necrosis in not only understanding human aging but also in enhancing the possibilities of deep space travel. Often dismissed as mere biological debris, necrosis—a chaotic form of unprogrammed cell death—has been revealed as a critical factor in tissue damage and systemic decline. Researchers from University College London, the biotech firm LinkGevity, and the European Space Agency argue that this understanding could pave the way for new treatments for chronic illnesses and provide a crucial tool for humans to survive in space. This discovery opens doors to revolutionary advances in medicine and space exploration. Understanding Necrosis: The Chaotic Cell Death Necrosis is a form of cell death that occurs when cells are overwhelmed by injury, infection, or stress. This process floods cells with calcium, disrupting vital functions and causing the cell to rupture. The collapse spills toxic molecules into the surrounding tissue, triggering inflammation and accelerating damage. Unlike the well-ordered process of programmed cell death, necrosis is messy—and contagious. A single dying cell can spark a chain reaction in its neighbors, compounding degeneration over time. Researchers believe this chaotic process may explain how chronic diseases such as Alzheimer's, kidney failure, and cardiovascular decline intensify with age. According to Dr. Keith Siew, necrosis has been largely overlooked as it was considered an endpoint. However, mounting evidence suggests it is a central mechanism through which systemic degeneration arises and spreads. By targeting necrosis, scientists hope to unlock new ways to treat conditions ranging from kidney failure to cardiac disease, neurodegeneration, and even aging itself. 'Einstein Was Right All Along': This Atomic Clock on the ISS Is Putting General Relativity to Its Ultimate Test Necrosis and Its Impact on Chronic Diseases Dr. Carina Kern emphasizes that necrosis is not just the last stage of cell death but a critical point of convergence across many diseases. In many age-related illnesses—affecting organs such as the lungs, kidneys, liver, brain, and cardiovascular system—relentless cascades of necrosis fuel disease progression. This often occurs alongside impaired healing, leading to fibrosis, inflammation, and damaged cells. Each cascade triggers and amplifies the next, creating a vicious cycle of degeneration. If scientists can target and manage necrosis, they could potentially transform the treatment of various chronic diseases. The key lies in breaking the destructive cycles that necrosis initiates, allowing for healthier cell function and possibly even regeneration. This approach could revolutionize the way we understand and treat degenerative conditions, offering hope for improved health outcomes in aging populations. 'Alien-Like Sea Creature Emerges': Extremely Rare Marine Species Seen for First Time Following 62-Mile Iceberg Detachment Challenges and Opportunities in Space Exploration Necrosis presents a significant obstacle to human space exploration, as astronauts endure accelerated aging caused by microgravity and cosmic radiation. A 2024 study involving Dr. Siew highlighted the rapid deterioration of kidney function in low-gravity environments, raising concerns for long-duration space missions. Professor Damian Bailey suggests that addressing necrosis could transform longevity on Earth and push the frontiers of space exploration. In space, factors that contribute to aging on Earth are exacerbated by cosmic radiation and microgravity, speeding up degeneration dramatically. If necrosis could be prevented, even temporarily, it would shut down destructive cycles at their source, enabling normal physiological processes and cell division to resume. This potential for regeneration could be a game-changer for long-term human survival in space, opening new horizons for exploration and discovery. 'Global Population Far Higher Than Expected': New Revelation Exposes Massive Undercount That Changes Everything About Our Future Future Implications and the Path Forward The study of necrosis and its implications for aging and space travel has been published in Nature Oncogene, signaling a significant step forward in understanding this complex process. The collaborative efforts of scientists from various fields underscore the importance of interdisciplinary research in tackling global challenges. As science continues to unravel the mysteries of necrosis, the potential applications in medicine and space exploration are vast and promising. With the possibility of targeting necrosis to treat chronic diseases and support human survival in space, the future of this research is both exciting and challenging. As we venture further into the unknown, what new discoveries about cell death and regeneration will shape the future of humanity, both on Earth and beyond? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.6/5 (26)
France 24
5 days ago
- France 24
Japanese startup attempts Moon landing
If successful, it will be only the third private mission to the Earth's rocky natural satellite ever completed, and the first by a company based outside the United States. The startup, ispace, says touchdown is expected at 4:17 am Japan time on Friday (1917 GMT Thursday) with the potentially nail-biting attempt streamed on its website. Resilience is "ready to attempt a historic landing on the Moon" and "we are confident in our preparations for success", ispace CEO Takeshi Hakamada said last week. "We have leveraged the operational experience gained in Mission 1 and during this current voyage to the Moon," he said in a statement. Only five nations have soft-landed spacecraft on the Moon -- the Soviet Union, the United States, China, India and Japan. And now companies are vying to offer cheaper and more frequent space exploration opportunities than governments. Last year, the Houston-based Intuitive Machines became the first private enterprise to touch down on the Moon. Although its uncrewed craft landed at the wrong angle, it was still able to complete tests and send photos. Then in March this year, Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost -- launched on the same SpaceX rocket as ispace's Resilience -- aced its lunar landing attempt. Despite their rocket ride-share, Resilience took longer to reach the Moon than Blue Ghost, and ispace is now hoping for its own moment of glory, after its first mission resulted in an unsalvageable "hard landing" in 2023. Landing on the Moon is highly challenging as spacecraft must rely on precisely controlled thruster burning to slow their descent. Intuitive Machines' second attempt at a Moon landing ended in disappointment in late March. Its spacecraft Athena, designed to touch down on a spot called the Mons Mouton plateau -- closer to the lunar south pole than any previous mission -- tipped over and was unable to recharge its solar-powered batteries. Meanwhile another Japanese startup, Space One, has been trying to become the country's first private firm to put a satellite into orbit. Its latest rocket launch attempt in December blasted off but was later seen spiralling downwards in the distance as the company said the launch had to be terminated.
