Satellite-Based Measurements of CO_2 for Carbon Flux Estimation

摘要

Satellite observations of atmospheric CO_2 are the key to answering important questions regarding spatial and temporal variabilities of carbon sources and sinks. Global measurements sampling the air above land and oceans allow oceanic flux to be distinguished from terrestrial flux. Continuous sampling on frequent basis allows seasonal variations to be distinguished. This study quantifies the potential value of satellite-based measurements of column-integrated CO_2 concentrations in terms of the carbon source/sink information that can be derived from these concentrations via inverse modeling. We discuss the utility of the carbon flux inversions in terms of both spatial and temporal resolution, compare capabilities of active and passive approaches to the measurements, and demonstrate the feasibility of high precision CO_2 column concentration retrievals.