In February 2024, global temperatures surpassed 1.5 degrees Celsius for the first time on record. With climate scientists warning our window to act is “rapidly shrinking,” pressure is mounting on governments worldwide to find new cutting-edge solutions to mitigate climate change.
As part of the ongoing efforts, environmental monitoring satellites have gained attention for their potential to transform how we monitor and address climate change. These satellites play a pivotal role in capturing precise, timely data and high-resolution imagery to inform proactive climate action.
Also read: Can environmental monitoring satellites revolutionise climate action?
The Growing Role of Environmental Monitoring Satellites at COP29
From 11 to 22 November 2024, world leaders and organizations gathered in Baku, Azerbaijan, for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Climate Change — or COP29. This year’s conference focused on enhancing ambition and enabling action through increased investment in climate action projects. Environmental monitoring satellites played a central role in discussions, underscoring their importance in helping nations reduce emissions and monitor climate change effectively.
In line with COP28’s goals, which focused on “transforming our current course,” attention turned to the growing potential of environmental monitoring satellites to provide critical data and insights. Agencies like NASA, the European Space Agency, and the UAE’s satellite solutions provider Yahsat demonstrated the immense benefits of these satellites in emission reduction strategies.
The Future of Climate Data Collection via Satellite
Satellites use remote sensing to capture data samples emitted through electromagnetic radiation and reflected from Earth’s environments. This technology provides extremely accurate data that can be utilized to support proactive climate action. Over 50% of climate variables can be measured from space, and sensors such as Active Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Hyperspectral can collect optical data through thick clouds, covering hundreds of spectral bands.
Not only do these sensors acquire imagery for climate monitoring, but they can also identify illegal activities, such as unauthorized deforestation or mining, while providing key atmospheric data.
Technical Challenges in Environmental Monitoring Satellites
While environmental monitoring satellites offer immense promise, they are not without technical hurdles. Specifically, challenges related to component durability, longevity, and energy consumption must be addressed. Satellites are launched into space at speeds of at least 25,039 miles per hour and must maintain balance with Earth’s gravity once in orbit. During this journey, satellites face extreme vibrations, temperature variations, cosmic radiation, and long storage times, which can affect their functionality if not designed properly.
The Essential Role of Motors in Satellite Operation
Motors are a vital component of any satellite, helping control its position and orientation, deploy solar panels and antennas, and stabilize cameras for imaging and sensor readings. To ensure the satellite functions properly, the motors must be reliable under the harsh conditions of space.
Stepper Motors for Precision and Durability in Satellites
Stepper motors, which are crucial for positioning satellites and adjusting sensors, are designed to offer precision and durability. These motors use multiple stator windings surrounding a toothed rotor. Their stepped movement is achieved through electromagnetic pulses that ensure high torque at low speeds, which is perfect for precise satellite positioning.
The stepper motors supplied by EMS, such as those from FAULHABER, range between 6 and 66 millimeters and can weigh between 1 to 125 grams. These motors are designed to be highly fuel-efficient, which is critical because every kilogram of weight sent into orbit costs 100 times its weight in fuel. This feature allows for longer missions and more efficient operation.
Furthermore, stepper motors are built to operate under extreme conditions, including high radiation levels and extreme temperatures, making them the ideal choice for environmental monitoring satellites that need to perform reliably in space.
Conclusion: Environmental Monitoring Satellites and the Future of Climate Action
As global temperatures rise, the urgency for innovative solutions to combat climate change has never been more critical. Environmental monitoring satellites are at the forefront of climate action, offering vital data to monitor, mitigate, and track climate change. However, for these satellites to reach their full potential, they must be supported by highly reliable and efficient components like stepper motors.
As COP29 draws to a close, the role of environmental monitoring satellites has gained actionable momentum, and these technologies will continue to play a crucial role in global efforts to address climate change effectively.
