From Stars to Sustainability: Measuring Greenhouse Gases with Astronomy Technology
Event description
Join the Faculty of Engineering for a talk by Dr. Magnus Gålfalk, a pioneering researcher who has journeyed from exploring the cosmos to unraveling the mysteries of our own planet's climate. Discover how a chance encounter over a decade ago propelled him to redirect his astronomical expertise towards addressing one of Earth's most pressing challenges—climate change; Dr. Gålfalk has developed two innovative optical methods, utilizing different light spectrums, to detect greenhouse gas emissions both in the air and from ground-based observations.
Learn how infrared hyperspectral cameras, traditionally used to analyze the chemical compositions of distant stars and galaxies, are now revolutionizing the detection and measurement of greenhouse gas emissions. This capability allows for the visualization of gases like carbon dioxide and methane, which are otherwise invisible to the naked eye; Which then can be used to revolutionize greenhouse gas leak mitigation efforts. Explore how looking at the stars can help us better understand and protect our own planet.
Discover the role of drones in measuring greenhouse gas emissions. Using a system based on two laser gas analyzers, an anemometer for wind (measuring the speed and direction of the wind) , and UAV telemetry (everything measured once per second) that can be combined to give a point cloud of measurements (3D map of data points). Emissions are then calculated from the mass balance of incoming and outgoing air around a source, with examples including various treatment steps at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs).
Gain insights from Dr. Gålfalk’s recent field projects, which feature innovative methods of attaching sophisticated measuring instruments to drones for enhanced data collection.
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of:
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How astronomical monitoring equipment can be repurposed to observe and visualize greenhouse gases on Earth.
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Cutting-edge observation techniques that improve the accuracy and efficiency of environmental monitoring.
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Future prospects for cross-disciplinary environmental monitoring.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024
Time: 9:30 - 10:30 AM
Location: Engineering 7 - rm: E7-7303 and E7-7363
Magnus Gålfalk, University Lecturer and Professor, Linköping University, Sweden
Magnus Gålfalk specializes in optical measurement methods and image processing, applying techniques from astronomy to environmental research. His interdisciplinary work includes visualizing greenhouse gases in images and videos, focusing on greenhouse gases and climate change. With a background in observational astronomy, Magnus utilizes custom image processing and modeling techniques for projects like capturing methane emissions and analyzing surface water heating in lakes. He also contributes to courses in Astronomy, Physics, and Natural Geography, emphasizing the greenhouse effect.