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Updated: Jul 29, 2025
05:00
Measuring Dissolved Methane in Aquatic Ecosystems Using An Optical Spectroscopy Gas Analyzer
Published on: July 26, 2024
533
A simple and quick sensitivity analysis method for methane isotopologues detection with GOSAT-TANSO-FTS.
Edward Malina1, Jan-Peter Muller1, David Walton1
1Formerly at Imaging Group, Mullard Space Science Laboratory, Department of Space and Climate Physics, University College London, Holmbury St. Mary, Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6NT, UK.
UCL Open. Environment
|May 25, 2023
Summary
Satellite measurements of methane isotopologues like 13CH4 are challenging. This study shows limited sensitivity for detecting 13CH4 from space, requiring significant methane enhancements.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric chemistry
- Remote sensing
- Isotope analysis
Background:
- Methane isotopologues differentiate biogenic and abiogenic sources.
- Global measurements are needed to reconcile top-down and bottom-up methane estimates.
- Current 13CH4 measurements are limited to in situ and airborne studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the potential for space-based detection of 13CH4.
- Utilize data from the Japanese Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite.
- Employ a rapid residual radiance analysis technique.
Main Methods:
- Applied a quick and simple residual radiance analysis technique.
- Analyzed spectral regions for 13CH4 detection.
- Assessed sensitivity using a desert surface albedo of >0.3.
Main Results:
- Found limited sensitivity for 13CH4 detection from space.
- Detections were limited to total column methane enhancements exceeding 6%.
Conclusions:
- Space-based detection of 13CH4 is currently challenging with the applied method.
- The method offers potential for educational purposes in radiative transfer analysis.
- Further advancements are needed for robust global 13CH4 monitoring.
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