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Bob Yirka is a writer for Phys.org. The entire global footprint of space science, including both ground-based and space-based observatories, has been calculated by a team of researchers. Space science has a lifetime footprint of 20.3 million metric tons, according to a paper published in the journal Nature Astronomy. Andrew Ross Wilson, with the University of Strathclyde, has published a News & Views piece in the same journal issue describing the difficulty in calculating the footprint of astronomical research efforts and the methods that are used to do so. The amount of energy used during 46 space-based projects and 39 ground-based projects was described in prior astronomy research papers. Projects like the construction and operation of new observatories as well as the launching of space-based observatories were included. Projections were given for energy costs needed to maintain the projects. The Hubble Space Telescope has an estimated footprint of 555,000 metric tons, while the James Webb telescope has a footprint of 300,000 metric tons. The team used data from their work to estimate the total amount of carbon released by the astronomy community worldwide. Carbon release as part of astronomy research can include the following:
Due to the unique nature of the work done by the astronomy community, it is important that they set themselves as a good example of planet caretakers. The astronomy community needs to slow down its planning and construction phases so that it can include a carbon footprint. They suggest that steps be taken to reduce their footprint.
More information: Jürgen Knödlseder et al, Estimate of the carbon footprint of astronomical research infrastructures, Nature Astronomy (2022). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-022-01612-3The CO2 intensity of the space sector is estimated by Andrew Ross Wilson. It's DOI: 10.1038/s41550-022-01639-6.
Journal information: Nature AstronomyThe Science X Network will be launched in 2022.
Citation: Calculating the global carbon footprint of space science (2022, March 22) retrieved 22 March 2022 from https://phys.org/news/2022-03-global-carbon-footprint-space-science.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.
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