MicroCarb, a polar-orbiting satellite developed by the French space agency CNES, is set to enhance the monitoring of global carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels. Orbiting at an altitude of approximately 650 kilometers, the satellite is equipped with a high-precision infrared spectrometer capable of measuring oxygen and CO₂ concentrations at four specific wavelengths. These measurements can achieve a precision of up to one part per million.
Distinguishing between natural absorption of CO₂ and emissions from human activities is essential for understanding the carbon cycle and informing climate policy. While forests and oceans naturally absorb carbon dioxide, human-induced emissions disturb this balance. By separating these sources, scientists can improve climate models, track the impact of mitigation efforts, and ensure transparency in global climate commitments.
MicroCarb marks Europe’s first dedicated satellite mission for mapping CO₂ sources and sinks. Built on CNES’s Myriade platform, the satellite’s instrument was developed by Airbus Defence and Space. Integration was carried out by Thales Alenia Space UK, with support from the UK Space Agency.
Although independent from the upcoming Copernicus CO2M mission, MicroCarb will serve as a contributing mission to Copernicus, delivering early data to the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service. This includes valuable input for greenhouse gas monitoring products. The experience gained from MicroCarb’s commissioning and operations will also support the development and deployment of the CO2M mission.
Together, MicroCarb and CO2M will strengthen the global satellite network for greenhouse gas observation, enabling improved tracking of CO₂ sources, sinks, and atmospheric dynamics.
Supported by the European Commission’s Horizon 2020 programme, MicroCarb received essential backing through the In-Orbit Demonstration/Validation (IOD/IOV) initiative. This included funding for a critical data processing unit and launch services provided by Arianespace using the Vega-C rocket.
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