CO2M

Mission Overview

CO2M is equipped with a near-infrared and shortwave-infrared spectrometer designed to measure atmospheric carbon dioxide and methane concentrations, with a specific focus on distinguishing anthropogenic emissions from natural fluxes. The mission enhances transparency in emission reporting and helps estimate greenhouse gas emissions at local, national and regional scales. CO2M provides the EU with a unique, independent source of information to assess the effectiveness of decarbonisation policies and verify compliance with the Paris Agreement emission reduction targets. The mission also delivers data on aerosol optical depth and nitrogen dioxide in the lower atmosphere. A constellation of three satellites (CO2M-A, -B and -C) is planned, with the first launch scheduled for late 2027.

Key Application Areas

• Anthropogenic CO₂ and methane monitoring
  • Support to the Paris Agreement and EU Green Deal
  • National and regional emission inventories
  • Aerosol optical depth and NO₂ monitoring

  • Climate policy effectiveness assessment

     

Technical Documents & References

• CO2M Mission Requirements Document (v3.0, Oct 2020)
• CO2M on SentiWiki (Copernicus)
• CO2M on eoPortal
• Copernicus Sentinel Expansion missions
• ESA Scientific & Technical Mission Documents Library