Chinese scientists utilize SDGSAT-1 satellite for offshore oil and gas platform monitoring

A team from the Aerospace Information Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) detailed their findings in a recent publication in the International Journal of Digital Earth. Their work underscores the growing need for advanced monitoring systems as global energy demands increase and industries move toward reducing carbon emissions.

The vast and ever-changing nature of offshore environments makes the tracking of oil and gas platforms particularly challenging. To address this, the researchers utilized SDGSAT-1's Glimmer Imager and Thermal Infrared Spectrometer to detect gas flaring activities in the South China Sea. This innovative approach provided enhanced accuracy in identifying and mapping offshore platform operations.

Through their analysis, the researchers successfully pinpointed 113 oil and gas platforms in the South China Sea, distinguishing them from surrounding maritime elements such as islands, ships, and other infrastructure.

"These findings highlight the competence of SDGSAT-1 in tracking the operational status of oil and gas platforms," the study stated.

SDGSAT-1, launched on November 5, 2021, is the first Earth science satellite specifically designed to support the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Developed by CAS, it delivers vital space-based data to analyze human-environment interactions and advance sustainability efforts.