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STV News
a day ago
- Science
- STV News
Satellite to track climate change from space with help from Scots scientists
Scientists from the University of Edinburgh are celebrating the successful launch of a new satellite set to transform the way the world monitors carbon dioxide. MicroCarb – a landmark UK-France mission – has soared into orbit aboard the 35-metre Vega-C rocket, launched from French Guiana. It's designed to deliver the most detailed satellite measurements of atmospheric CO2 ever achieved from space. The groundbreaking satellite marks a major milestone in the fight against climate change by providing more accurate climate data, experts say. STV News 'Climate watchdog' satellite will transform how carbon is monitored globally Designed to act as a 'climate watchdog', MicroCarb will pinpoint how much carbon dioxide is being emitted and absorbed by cities, oceans and forests in unprecedented detail. Its readings will feed into global efforts to tackle climate change and limit global warming to 1.5C. University of Edinburgh space science professor Paul Palmer told STV News: 'For us, there are still some very fundamental questions about our knowledge of the global carbon cycle particularly now with our warming world. STV News Researchers from the University of Edinburgh will translate the satellite's CO₂ data into detailed publicly accessible maps showing carbon absorption and emissions. 'We're seeing things changing very rapidly, particularly in the tropics, and also because we're going to collect data that will contribute to the Paris Agreement. 'So, understanding which countries are emitting and absorbing what will play a role in our delivery of that information.' MicroCarb can also track the faint glow plants emit when they take in too much energy from the sun than they can use, revealing seasonal trends of carbon absorption. Philippe Landiech, senior project leader for MicroCarb at the National d'études Spatiales (French National Space Agency). said watching the satellite successfully enter orbit was 'a great pleasure'. UK Space Agendy Artist's impression of MicroCarb in orbit He said: 'We had a few seconds of anxiety – there was great satisfaction once everything was okay! 'The aim of MicroCarb is to get worldwide access of the CO₂ contribution in the atmosphere and measure the CO2 content between sources around the Earth. 'To have this in the longer timeframe, we want to see the seasonal effects better in a longer timeframe and track global trends linked to the climate change we are facing.' UK minister for space Sir Chris Bryant said: 'Satellites like Microcarb are essentially our eyes in the sky,' he said. 'Over half of the critical data we use to understand climate change comes from space.' 'This groundbreaking mission is proof of what can be achieved when we harness the strength of Britain's burgeoning space industry, together with our deep scientific expertise. Bolstered with £15m UK Government backing, the MicroCarb satellite will overhaul our ability to track carbon emissions – supporting the clean energy mission that's key to this Government's Plan for Change. 'It's also further evidence of the value of our deep and unique relationship with France: a partnership which the Prime Minister reinforced, with President Macron, at the UK-France Summit earlier this month.' Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
ABC News
14-05-2025
- ABC News
Men who allegedly impersonated police to break into wrong Canberra home refused bail
An allegedly violent home invasion at the wrong address has landed two Canberra men accused of the crime behind bars. Paul Palmer, 47, and Dwayne Goward, 37, were charged in the ACT Magistrates Court today. They are alleged to have been part of a group of four who claimed to be police when they descended on the Mawson home in July 2024. They are accused of assault, aggravated burglary, impersonating police, and theft after they stole the alleged victim's car and wallet. Police say it is alleged they forced their way into the home, then threatened the occupant with a firearm and other weapons before assaulting him. He was left with serious injuries and required hospitalisation. Police believe the man was mistakenly targeted by the group. They say immediately after the incident the group fled in a convoy of three cars, including the one they stole. A police officer told the court the evidence against the men includes that Mr Palmer bought black hoodies and other clothes in various sizes at Big W on the night before the home invasion. Mr Palmer sought bail today, agreeing to abide by strict conditions. But Magistrate Jane Campbell said while the case was circumstantial, "the combination of circumstances is compelling," and bail was refused. Mr Goward did not apply for bail but was formally charged. The court heard one of the men involved remains unknown, but a third person has been identified, although he is already in custody on other charges. The case will return to court in June.
