Francis Waligora L&S Math & Physical Sciences
Mapping of Atmospheric Methane Using Networks of Low-Cost Sensors
Although satellite-based remote sensing has revolutionized the mapping of greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations and air quality, identifying its localized emission sources and sinks remains challenging. High operational costs of satellites and the lack of spatial resolution limits finding of emission sources in complex urban environments. This limitation is particularly important for methane, whose urban emissions arise from diverse sources, making them difficult to detect and attribute.
This project will perform a spatiotemporal analysis of atmospheric methane variability in urban environments using a network of calibrated low-cost sensors. Though each sensor is less precise than traditional methane sensors, their network deployment enables high-resolution mapping of methane concentrations in an urban atmosphere setting.
This would be the first such array in the world specifically designed for detection of localized emission sources.
Message To Sponsor
I am very grateful for your support of undergraduate research. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work on the detection of methane emissions to support methane mitigation efforts and inform climate policy. I am excited to conduct research at such a prestigious institution like UC Berkeley!