Scientists: Space Lasers Could Measure Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide
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Lasers: They’re more than just fun toys. The European Space Agency (ESA) recently demonstrated how lasers can accurately measure atmospheric CO2 levels. The A-SCOPE (Advanced Space Carbon and Climate Observation of Planet Earth) space mission is one of six being considered by the agency.
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According to ESA scientists, atmospheric column CO2 can be measured from space using two short laser pulses emitted at adjacent wavelengths. As a result of the pulses, CO2 is absorbed by one of the wavelengths. The other wavelength is used as a reference point, and the comparison between the two shows the total column concentration of CO2.
A-SCOPE proponents believe that understanding more about the movement of carbon between the atmosphere, land, and ocean will improve estimates of the global carbon cycle’s future changes.
If the A-SCOPE mission is chosen, expect a launch in 2016.
Photo Credit: A-SCOPE
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