Analysis of Local Methane Emissions Using Near-Simultaneous Multi-Satellite Observations: Insights from Landfills and Oil-Gas Facilities

TL;DR

This study compares methane emission measurements from multiple satellites over landfills and oil-gas facilities, highlighting the benefits and limitations of each sensor to improve global methane monitoring.

Contribution

It introduces a multi-satellite approach for near-simultaneous methane emission detection, enhancing accuracy and temporal coverage for diverse emission sources.

Findings

Satellite sensors show varying accuracy in methane detection.

Landfill emissions are stable and diffuse, while oil-gas facilities are more variable.

Multi-sensor integration improves emission quantification.

Abstract

Methane (CH4) is a potent greenhouse gas, and its detection and quantification are crucial for mitigating the greenhouse effect. This study presents a comparative analysis of methane emissions observed using near-simultaneous observations from hyperspectral imaging spectrometers hosted aboard different satellite platforms (PRISMA, EnMAP, EMIT and GHGSat). Methane emissions from oil and gas facilities and landfills are analyzed to evaluate the consistency and precision of the sensors and temporal variability of the source. Landfills, characterized by diffuse and stable emissions, and dynamic oil and gas facilities, subject to operational variability, provide contrasting use cases for emission monitoring. Emission rates are quantified using the Integrated Mass Enhancement (IME) model and validated across satellites with overlapping acquisitions. This study highlights the advantages and limitations of each satellite system, emphasizing the critical role of multi-sensor integration in bridging temporal and spatial observation gaps. Insights derived here aim to enhance global methane monitoring frameworks and guide future satellite design for improved emission quantification.