EDF
Workers in clean suits install the final pieces of MethaneSAT. Its solar panel

Workers install the last MethaneSAT components to prepare for launch. (Photo courtesy of BAE Systems.)

Dear John,

In my 21 years here at EDF, I’ve never been as excited about anything we’ve ever done to help protect people and the environment as I am at this moment.

MethaneSAT, the most advanced methane-detecting satellite ever, is now sitting atop a SpaceX rocket scheduled to launch today around 1:40 p.m. Pacific Time / 4:40 p.m. Eastern Time.

You can follow along (including a link to the live feed of the launch) and learn more about this game-changing project on our website.

Just clear your schedule and hang out with us for a while as we count down to this momentous event, one made possible by the generous support of our donors. Not to mention our amazing staff.
 
Watch the launch TODAY at 1:40 p.m.  PT 🚀

Why is this such a big moment? Just consider:
 
  • Methane pollution is a potent climate accelerant responsible for up to 30% of the warming we’re already seeing;
  • Methane pollution is invisible and odorless to humans. But with the benefit of instruments, the leaks can be seen, sometimes in huge plumes of pollution;
  • Cutting methane pollution from oil and gas facilities is often as simple as plugging a leak, tightening a bolt, securing an orphan well.
 

MethaneSAT has unmatched accuracy and precision, leveraging advanced sensing technology to detect methane emissions across the globe. As The New Yorker said, it will be a “security camera for the planet.”

Simply put, we cannot solve the climate crisis without tackling methane pollution. And we cannot tackle methane pollution without exposing the sources of the emissions. This is exactly what MethaneSAT was built to help us do.
 
A computerized rendering of MethaneSAT as it will look in orbit, with the solar panels fully extended like wings to efficiently capture solar energy.

It's about data. It’s about action. it's about accountability. It’s about getting down to the work of plugging the leaks and making sure every company and facility knows we’re watching and will be holding them accountable.

Ultimately, this is about our future. MethaneSAT is the most powerful tool we will have to expose and clamp down on methane pollution. And donor support makes it all possible.

When I think of whether our work, our commitment, our dedication is making a difference, some days it feels like an uphill fight. But today, my mind is thinking of the stars and this incredible mission we’re accomplishing together.

I’m so excited! And I hope you feel the same way. Because you, John, are helping us boldly go where no environmental organization has ever gone — to space, with a mission of helping us all save this planet from climate catastrophe.

Follow along today — and be on the lookout for a lot more MethaneSAT updates to come.
 
Tune in now →

I can’t thank you enough,
Sam Parry
Membership Director

P.S. Satellite launches are always subject to weather conditions and other events. As of now, this mission is a go. But please be aware that delays are possible. Either way, global methane pollution detection will soon be in orbit, thanks to you and all our members and donors.