Carbon Mapper expands methane emission monitoring with Tanager-2 satellite launch
The methane-detecting satellite Tanager-2 was successfully launched into orbit as part of SpaceX's Transporter-18 rideshare mission. The new satellite enhances monitoring capabilities and increases emission transparency.
Carbon Mapper, an organization focused on tracking methane emissions, has successfully launched its second satellite, Tanager-2, into orbit aboard a SpaceX Transporter-18 rideshare mission on October 1, 2026. Tanager-2 is part of a series of satellites developed by Planet Labs PBC, operating through a partnership led by Carbon Mapper and supported by philanthropic funding.
The Tanager satellites are designed to detect methane "super-emitter" sources with high granularity, allowing for precise location and rapid mitigation. The first Tanager satellite, launched in August 2024, has already demonstrated its effectiveness in driving greenhouse gas reduction actions. The addition of Tanager-2 enables Carbon Mapper to scale its impact and improve emission transparency across a wider range of locations.
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to near-term warming. Its relatively short lifespan in the atmosphere compared to carbon dioxide makes its reduction a crucial strategy for slowing climate change. "Super-emitter" sources can account for a disproportionately large share of total emissions in certain sectors. Identifying and fixing these emissions can lead to substantial and immediate reductions.
Carbon Mapper makes its satellite data publicly accessible. The organization's website has published over 15,200 methane plumes, traced to more than 5,400 unique emission sources. The Tanager-2 satellite will increase the frequency of observations, allowing for the release of even more emissions data and facilitating action across the oil and gas, coal, waste, and agriculture sectors.