Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT) Topics

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Feb. 18, 2020 Updated
Massive bushfires in Australia seen from Space

Australia has naturally faced many droughts and bushfires, but conditions have been unusually severe this time. Sometime around September 2019, the bushfires continuously occurred around the state of New South Wales in southeast Australia. The fires had been spreading on a larger scale, and a number of massive fires had merged into a "Mega Fire" that was out of control. The fires are unlikely to end entirely even at the end of January 2020.

Figure 1 (left) Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) in Australia calculated by GSMaP precipitation amount in a month (December 2019), (right)SPI calculated by GSMaP precipitation amount in three months (October-December 2019) in a same way. The relations between SPI value, the range of drought and frequency of phenomenon were classified by WMO (2012). In case SPI value becomes "-1.5 to -1.99", it indicates the situation of "Severe dryness" which happens "once in 20 years". In case SPI value becomes less than -2.0, it corresponds "Extreme dryness" which happens "once in 50 years". These condition shows the possibility of severe drought occurrence which leads to a big social impact.

Oct. 27, 2016 Updated
Whole-atmospheric Monthly CO2 Concentration Tops 400 ppm based on IBUKI observation

The Ministry of Environment, National Institute of Environmental Studies and JAXA monitor CO2 level by JAXA's Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite IBUKI (GOSAT). The Provisional analysis was done of IBUKI's observational data obtained until May 2016. The results show that the global atmospheric monthly mean CO2 concentration observed vertically through the whole atmosphere exceeded 400 ppm for the first time in February 2016. In addition, the monthly CO2 concentration, after hitting the 400 ppm mark in December 2015, reached the unprecedented level of 402.3 ppm in December 2015. It is the highest record since GOSAT was launched in 2009.

JAXA will report the data at the official side events at COP22, to be held in Marrakesh, Morocco, from November 7 to 18, 2016.
The observation data is regularly made available to the public.

Whole-atmospheric Monthly CO2 Concentration Tops 400 ppm based on IBUKI observation

May 20, 2016 Updated
Whole-atmospheric monthly CO2 concentration tops 400 ppm based on observations by IBUKI

A recent provisional analysis of IBUKI (GOSAT) observational data shows that the global atmospheric monthly mean CO2 concentration observed vertically through the whole atmosphere exceeded 400 ppm in December 2015 for the first time since GOSAT was launched in 2009.
Several meteorological agencies such as the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) have already reported that the global monthly mean CO2 concentration based on data obtained at surface-level monitoring sites has exceeded 400 ppm. However, it is the first time that the whole-atmospheric CO2 mean exceeded 400 ppm monitored by GOSAT, which can observe CO2 concentrations from the surface to the top of the atmosphere (about 70km). It means that CO2 concentrations are increasing not only at the global surface but also in the global atmosphere.

Whole-atmospheric monthly CO2 concentration tops 400 ppm based on observations by IBUKI

Nov. 27, 2015 Updated
IBUKI methane observation data: close correlation between methane concentration and human activity

As a result of analyzing three-year observation data acquired by the Greenhouse Gas Observing Satellite “IBUKI” (GOSAT) until Dec. 2012, the concentration of methane is higher in areas where anthropogenically-derived methane emission is intense, such as densely populated areas, large-scale agricultural regions, natural gas and oil producing/refining areas, compared to other surround areas.
In addition, intimate correlation was found between anthropogenically derived methane concentration observed by IBUKI and the concentration estimated by actual emission data (inventory*); therefore, IBUKI can be a viable monitor/verification tool for methane emission by human activity.
We will survey, research and analyze anthropogenically derived methane concentration more frequently by using a multiple number of satellite data to further enhance estimation accuracy. Our achievements will be applied to the successor of IBUKI (GOSAT-2) to contribute to promotion of global warming measures.

* Statistic data indicating how much of specific substance (such as air pollutant and hazardous chemical substance) is emitted from where in a specific period of time.

IBUKI methane observation data: close correlation between methane concentration and human activity

Nov. 16, 2015 Updated
Public release of whole-atmosphere monthly mean CO2 concentration based on observations by IBUKI

"IBUKI" (GOSAT) has been in operation since its launch on January 23, 2009. The whole-atmosphere monthly mean concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2), calculated by using GOSAT data that reflect CO2 levels in all layers of the atmosphere, was found to have reached 398.8 ppm in May 2015, while showing seasonal oscillation and yearly rise over the analyzed period. It was also confirmed that the trend line of the whole-atmosphere CO2 mean (average seasonal cycle removed) had reached 398.2 ppm in July 2015. The trend line is expected to exceed 400 ppm within the year 2016, given that the rising trend continues. The GOSAT observation elucidates for the first time that CO2 concentration averaged over all layers of the atmosphere will soon reach the level of 400 ppm, and demonstrates the importance of global greenhouse gas monitoring from space.

Public release of whole-atmosphere monthly mean CO2 concentration based on observations by IBUKI

Dec. 25, 2014 Updated
"IBUKI" (GOSAT) Satellite's Historically Unprecedented Observation of Anthropogenic CO2 Emissions of Mega-City Regions from Space

The Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite "IBUKI", developed jointly by the Ministry of the Environment (MOE), the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) is the world's only satellite designed specifically to monitor greenhouse gases from space. The satellite has continued to fulfill its main mission in monitoring atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane concentrations from space to improve the accuracy of sink/source estimates, and achieve its target to contribute to precision refinement for the ongoing elucidation of carbon cycles, since its launch on January 23, 2009.

"IBUKI" (GOSAT) Satellite's Historically Unprecedented Observation of Anthropogenic CO2 Emissions of Mega-City Regions from Space

Dec. 6, 2012 Updated
Public release of carbon dioxide flux estimates based on observation data by IBUKI

The data of global CO2 fluxes on a monthly and regional basis for the one-year period between June 2009 and May 2010 has been publicly distributed for the first time in the world. These flux values were estimated by combining ground-based CO2 monitoring data and CO2 concentration data acquired through the improved observation method of the Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite "IBUKI." (GOSAT). The calculation method has been improved for the concentration of greenhouse gases. The usefulness of the concentration data acquired by the satellite was quantitatively verified.
In order to obtain better CO2 flux estimates, we will continue to refine the data processing algorithms for the retrieval of CO2 concentrations from GOSAT data and the estimation of CO2 fluxes.

Public release of carbon dioxide flux estimates based on observation data by IBUKI

Oct. 28, 2011 Updated
IBUKI observations help reduce estimation error of the CO2 absorption and emission

The Ministry of the Environment, the National Institute for Environmental Studies, and JAXA calculated the error or uncertainty of the estimation results for monthly global and regional CO2 absorptions and emissions using data acquired by the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI." As a result, we can reduce the error of the estimated values when we introduce IBUKI's observation data compared to that of the values calculated in a conventional way based on ground observation data.
This achievement will be published in the Scientific Online Letters on the Atmosphere (an online thesis magazine) issued by the Meteorological Society of Japan on Oct. 29. We will offer our estimate result data to researchers who are working on related fields that were selected through public solicitation. After being evaluated, compared and verified by researchers, we will further revise the data, if necessary, then publish the finalized data to the public.

Aug. 20, 2010 Updated
Third Research Announcement on the "IBUKI" (GOSAT)

JAXA, the National Institute for Environmental Studies, and the Ministry of the Environment would like to make the third Research Announcement (RA) prior to the publication of the data acquired by the IBUKI (GOSAT) to the general public. The RA aims at evaluating the quality of data including calibration and validation data, and promoting usage and study of data.
The RA is for the following five same areas as the first and the second RA:

  • Calibration
  • Data processing algorithms
  • Carbon balance estimation, atmospheric transport models
  • Validation
  • Data application

Apr. 28, 2010 Updated
IBUKI provides images of Iceland volcano eruption to the British Government

The Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" shoots all-globe images every three days using its onboard supplement sensor "Cloud and Aerosol Imager, TANSO-CAI." Since April 15, it took images of the fumes billowing over Iceland and other European countries, and of a major eruption on the 17th.
We were asked by the British Government to provide observation data for verifying a prediction model, and, accordingly, we started offering processed images taken by the IBUKI. We will keep providing them through the end of April.

Feb. 16, 2010 Updated
IBUKI to provide analysis results of observation data (CO2 and methane concentration)

JAXA completed the initial validation of the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane based on the analysis results of observation data in the clear region taken by the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI." Accordingly, we would like to begin to provide the above results as well as information on cloud covering to the general public on February 18, 2010.

We will continue to improve data quality of analysis results, and plan to provide monthly region-by-region data of CO2 absorption and emission volume (in and out balance) in the first half of Japan Fiscal Year 2011.

Nov. 11, 2009 Updated
Technical Interface Meeting over IBUKI observation data

Between November 10 (Tue.) and 13 (Fri.), a GOSAT-ACOS* technical interface meeting is being held at the JAXA Tsukuba Space Center and at the National Institute for Environmental Studies. In the meeting, we are discussing the calibration and verification of observation data acquired by the IBUKI to improve data accuracy so as to be ready for the distribution of density data to the general public that is scheduled to start in January 2010.

*The ACOS (Atmospheric CO2 Observations from Space) Team is in charge of analyzing IBUKI observation data. The team is formed by a number of institutions including the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and Colorado State University.

Photo: At the JAXA Tsukuba Space Center

Oct. 30, 2009 Updated
Public Release of Observation Data (Radiance Spectrum and Images) from "IBUKI"

The Level 1 data products, which are radiance spectra observed by TANSO-FTS and images by the TANSO-CAI onboard the Greenhouse gasses Observing SATellite "IBUKI", will begin to be released to general users following the completion of the initial calibration.
In the future, after further calibration and validation of the data, the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide and methane data and corresponding analyzed products will be made available to registered users among the general public from around the end of January, 2010 target period.

Oct. 20, 2009 Updated
IBUKI Project won the Nikkei Global Environmental Technology Award

The “IBUKI” (GOSAT) project team received the “19th Nikkei Global Environmental Technology Award” (sponsored by Nikkei Inc., the publisher of Japan’s leading financial newspaper) after its satellite development and launch activities won praise. The award is granted to supreme achievements that contribute to “global environmental conservation and sustainable development” through investigation and research on environmental problems and/or development of technologies for such measures.
Photo: Accepting the award Director Hamazaki (right) and Associate Senior Engineer Kuze of the Program Management and Integration Dept.

Jul. 22, 2009 Updated
IBUKI took images of total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse was observed from Japan on July 22 for the first time in 46 years. The Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" took some images of a shadow of the moon on the earth.

May 28, 2009 Updated
IBUKI analyzed greenhouse gas density for first time

JAXA, the National Institute for Environmental Studies, and the Ministry of the Environment acquired analysis results of the density of CO2 and methane in the fine weather areas on the ground for the first time from the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI," which is currently under initial calibration and verification operations. As a result of the analysis, we found that the density data was mostly consistent with the conventional data observed on the ground: the density is high in the Northern Hemisphere and low in the Southern Hemisphere. We will further calibrate and verify the data, and publish and distribute the observation data and analyses when they are ready. (Image: JAXA/NIES/MOE)

Apr. 22, 2009 Updated
IBUKI moves to the initial calibration and verification operation

The Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite “IBUKI” has been under the initial functional verification mode to check the normal operation of onboard mission equipment, the satellite itself, and the ground system. On April 10, we moved to the initial calibration and verification operation phase. During this phase, all mission equipment will be calibrated and verified.
JAXA, the National Institute for Environmental Studies and the Ministry of the Environment announced the second research opportunity application for evaluating the quality of calibration and verification data and promoting data application and research. Your proposals and applications are welcome.
Photo: Eastern Japan by "IBUKI" Monitor Camera

Apr. 7, 2009 Updated
Second Research Announcement on the "IBUKI" (GOSAT)

JAXA, the National Institute for Environmental Studies, and the Ministry of the Environment would like to make the second Research Announcement (RA) prior to the publication of the data acquired by the IBUKI (GOSAT) to the general public. The RA aims at evaluating the quality of data including calibration and validation data, and promoting usage and study of data. The RA is for the following five same areas as the first RA:
- Calibration
- Data processing algorithms
- Carbon balance estimation, atmospheric transport models
- Validation
- Data application.

Mar. 19, 2009 Updated
Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT) " First Thermal infrared spectra" Acquired by Onboard Sensors

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) would like to announce that we successfully acquired the "First Thermal Infrared (TIR) spectra" by the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT) during the course of its initial functional check. The data was acquired by the onboard sensors of the IBUKI, the Thermal And Near infrared Sensor for carbon Observation-Fourier Transform Spectrometer (TANSO-FTS) after the functional check of detector cooler. which had been completed recently.

We will continue to carry out the initial functional check, which is scheduled to be completed in three months after its launch. JAXA, the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), and the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) will then cooperatively carry out the initial calibration and validation operations including comparing IBUKI data and the ground data, confirming the data accuracy, and making compensations based on the data.

Feb. 9, 2009 Updated
IBUKI "First Light" Acquisition

JAXA successfully acquired the “First Light” by the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite “IBUKI” (GOSAT) during the course of its initial functional check. The data was acquired by the onboard sensors of the IBUKI, the Fourier Transform Spectrometer (TANSO-FTS) and the Cloud and Aerosol Imager (TANSO-CAI), which were just activated. The IBUKI was launched at 12:54 p.m. on January 23 (Japan Standard Time.) Its initial functional check has been carried out on schedule, and the satellite is in good condition.
We will continue to carry out the initial functional check, which is scheduled to be completed in three months after its launch. JAXA, the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES), and the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) will then cooperatively carry out the initial calibration and validation operations including comparing IBUKI data and data acquired on the ground, confirming the data accuracy, and making compensations based on the data.

Jan. 24, 2009 Updated
"IBUKI" End of Critical Phase Operation

The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency confirmed that the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT) is now ready for the initial functional verification operation after shifting its attitude control system to the regular mode. Therefore, the critical phase operation of the IBUKI was completed at 5:15 p.m. on January 24, 2009 (Japan Standard Time, JST.)

The IBUKI was launched at 12:54 p.m. on January 23, 2009 (JST.)

We will start the initial functional verification phase to check the onboard equipment function for about three months.

Jan. 23, 2009 Updated
"IBUKI" successfully launched!

The Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT) was launched by the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 15 (H-IIA F15) at 12:54:00 p.m. on January, 23, 2009 (Japan Standard Time, JST) from the Tanegashima Space Center.

The launch vehicle flew smoothly, and, at about 16 minutes after liftoff, the separation of the IBUKI was confirmed.

Jan. 7, 2009 Updated
IBUKI encapsulated in payload fairing


On January 4, the "IBUKI" was mated with the "Payload Attach Fitting (PAF)" at the Spacecraft and Fairing Assembly Building (SFA.) The PAF is a base that connects the satellite and the launch vehicle.

On January 7, the encapsulation of the IBUKI by a fairing was carried out at the SFA. The fairing type for this launch is the same one for the previous launch of the "KIZUNA" satellite. It is a 4S type that is 4 meters in diameter, and 12 meters in height.

The fairing is a cover for the IBUKI to protect it from air resistance, friction heat, and acoustic vibrations from the moment of liftoff till it passes through the atmosphere.

The encapsulated IBUKI will be loaded onto the launch vehicle at the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB.)

(Left: The IBUKI mated with the PAF. Right: The IBUKI covered by the fairing)

Dec. 9, 2008 Updated
IBUKI open to the press at TNSC

On December 9, the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" was revealed to the press at the Spacecraft Test and Assembly Building #2 (STA2) at the Tanegasima Space Center (TNSC.) The IBUKI is now in its final preparation phase.

JAXA is accepting supportive messages to the IBUKI and its project team. We welcome your messages and images.

Nov. 5, 2008 Updated
Launch day of "IBUKI" set! Launch Special Site open

The launch day and lift-off time of the H-IIA Launch Vehicle No. 15 (H-IIA F15) was announced to be between 12:54 and 1:16 p.m. on January 21, 2009. The main payload of the H-IIA F15 is the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "IBUKI" (GOSAT.)
At the same time, the "IBUKI Launch Special Site" was also opened. We will provide updated information on the IBUKI there. Please enjoy it.
The IBUKI was open to the press on Nov. 4 at the Tsukuba Space Center. It will be transported to the Tanegashima Space Center for final launch preparations.

Oct. 15, 2008 Updated
'IBUKI' Chosen as Nickname of the GOSAT

"IBUKI" was selected as the nickname of the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT), which is scheduled to be launched this Japan fiscal year, after 12,683 applications were received from the general public.

IBUKI means "breath" or "puff", and as the GOSAT is a satellite to observe carbon dioxide, which is the Earth's puff (breath), the name reflects its mission. It also is hoped that the IBUKI will provide people with "vigor" and a "bright future."

The IBUKI is going to be transported to the Tanegashima Space Center soon for launch preparations.

Oct. 9, 2008 Updated
Solar Array Paddle Deployment Shock Test

On August 26, 2008, the GOSAT project team performed the solar array paddle deployment shock test. The paddles are essential for the satellite to generate the necessary power for its onboard equipment. They are stowed at the time of launch to be released by firing pyrotechnics when the satellite is injected into its initial orbit.

The test this time verified if the satellite was strong enough under the shock level of pyrotechnics firing and if the paddles were successfully deployed.

Oct. 2, 2008 Updated
GOSAT: Pyro-shock Test of the Proto-flight Model

Launch preparations for the GOSAT are smoothly underway targeting a launch within this fiscal year.
The pyro-shock test was successfully completed following the vibration test.

The pyro-shock test aims at verifying if a satellite is strong enough to bear the shocks generated by its separation from the launch vehicle.

The satellite attached to the launch vehicle by the Payload Attach Fitting (PAF) is separated from the launch vehicle by firing the pyrotechnics installed in the PAF.


Before separation

After separation

Aug. 19, 2008 Updated
PFM vibration test going smoothly

The GOSAT is currently undergoing a proto-flight model (PFM) vibration test.
When a satellite is launched by a launch vehicle, it is subjected to roaring sounds and fierce vibrations. Therefore, it has to be tested under the harsh acoustic and vibration environment to make sure that it can work properly when it reaches space. During the PFM vibration test, the satellite will be shaken vertically and horizontally to acquire various acceleration data.

Jul. 10, 2008 Updated
Want to be a godparent of a satellite?
Seeking a nickname for the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT)

The "GOSAT" is the first satellite to observe greenhouse gas around the Earth from space in order to further promote measures to deal with global warming.

Prior to its launch to space, we are asking your help to give the GOSAT a nickname. The nickname should be either in Japanese Hiragana or Katakana characters.
Please send us some appropriate nicknames by September 10 (Wed,) 2008.

Apr. 16, 2008 Updated
Thermal Vacuum Test on Greenhouse Gas Observation Sensor and General Test using the Proto Flight Model were performed

On January 28, 2008, the Thermal Vacuum Test on the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "GOSAT" was performed at the Tsukuba Space Center. (Top Photo) During the Thermal Vacuum Test, the Greenhouse Gas Observation Sensor that will aboard the satellite is placed in the chamber simulating the space environment in order to test if it works properly or not. On March 1, 2008, a General Test was also performed using the Proto Flight Model. (Bottom Photo) During this General Test, the wires and antennas were assembled.

Jan. 30, 2007 Updated
GOSAT STM open to the press

The structural thermal model (STM) of the Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite "GOSAT" was open to the press on January 29 at the Tsukuba Space Center.

The GOSAT was jointly developed by JAXA, Japan's Ministry of the Environment, and the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) to observe the density of carbon dioxide, one of the gases causing the green house effect. JAXA is in charge of developing and launching the satellite and acquiring data after the launch to provide to the Ministry and the NIES.

May 31, 2006 Updated
The third GOSAT symposium

On May 29, the third Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) symposium was held at Akihabara Convention Hall (Tokyo.) Following the project status report, lectures were given on the collaboration between the NASA OCO plan and the CO2 observation project of the GOSAT, as well as the latest research results on climatic change, and the role of electric cars for solving the global warming trend. Some 300 participants enthusiastically listened to the speakers. At the symposium, the project team felt people's expectations for the GOSAT firsthand.
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to all of you who supported the symposium and attended it.
The GOSAT is in a full-scale development phase to be ready for its scheduled launch in 2008. We are looking forward to your participation again in the fourth symposium scheduled to be held around the same time next year.

Photo: Dr. Davit Crisp of NASA/JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory)

Apr. 22, 2004 Updated
Symposium on the Utilization of GOSAT

On April 21, a symposium was held in Tokyo by organizations that are in charge of the development and operation of the GOSAT. They are the Ministry of Environment, the National Institute for Environmental Studies, and JAXA. After guest speakers Prof. Berrien Moor III of the University of New Hampshire and Prof. Yoshifumi Yasuoka of the University of Tokyo talked, a panel discussion was held by domestic and international academics on global warming issues, the necessity of CO2 observations, and the status of the GOSAT project. For more details, please check the site for the Symposium on the Utilization of Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT).

Symposium on the Utilization of GOSAT

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