In-Orbit

Outer Orbit: The Critical Role of Space-Based Methane Monitoring


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Are we finally equipping ourselves with the right tools to tackle the climate crisis’s most potent challenge? 

This bonus episode dives into the crucial role of methane, a gas whose warming potential is 80 times greater than CO2​ over a 20-year period, making it a powerful lever for immediate climate action. Host Dallas Campbell is joined by Charlotte Massey of the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) to explore how space technology is transforming the fight against emissions. 

Charlotte explains how NPL’s measurement science (metrology) ensures the quality and traceability of satellite-derived data, making it fit for purpose for regulation and global decision-making. They discuss the vital work of the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) in developing methane best practices, particularly for facility-scale emissions in the oil and gas sector. Charlotte’s perspective from the frontline of climate science offers a dose of measured optimism: understanding the problem is truly half the solution.

  • (00:00) - Welcome to Outer Orbit
  • (00:28) - Role and Responsibilities at NPL
  • (00:57) - Importance of Satellites in Emission Measurement
  • (01:50) - Methane: The Overlooked Greenhouse Gas
  • (02:31) - Committee for Earth Observation Satellites
  • (03:20) - Methane Best Practice Work
  • (04:01) - International Collaboration and COP
  • (04:28) - Optimism vs. Pessimism in Climate Science
  • (05:21) - The Role of Measurement Science
  • (06:09) - Personal Insights and Experiences at NPL


  • Charlotte Massey: Strategic Business Development Manager for both Greenhouse Gases and Earth Observation at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL). Charlotte is responsible for curating partnerships and setting the strategic direction of NPL's measurement science for greenhouse gas measurement and Earth Observation data. She focuses on delivering the essential measurement science required to ensure the accuracy, impartiality, and traceability of complex satellite data, making it a trusted resource for policymakers, regulators, and industry in addressing the climate emergency.

    Satellite Applications Catapult: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, Website
    National Physical Laboratory: LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Facebook, YouTube, Website


    Produced by Story Ninety-Four in Oxford.

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