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Canada’s Scisat satellite has surpassed expectations by remaining operational for 20 years, providing valuable data on human-driven climate change. The satellite’s longevity can be attributed to several factors. Its fuel consumption is minimal, making it easy to maintain a stable orbit. The data products have also been continuously improved to track a wider range of gases and chemical species. Regular updates and maintenance ensure that Scisat delivers relevant information to its users, ensuring consistent demand and funding support.

The development cost of Scisat in 2003 was million CAD, and it was launched for free by NASA on the Pegasus rocket in exchange for Canada’s contributions to the space shuttle program and the International Space Station. Despite its small size – about the area of a queen-sized bed – Scisat carries two scientific instruments to identify gases and particles in the Earth’s atmosphere. It focuses on the erosion of the ozone layer, which protects the planet from harmful solar radiation.

Scisat has made significant achievements, including the detection of atmospheric pollutants that were previously unseen from space. For example, it discovered the presence of HCFC-142b, a refrigerant gas used as a substitute for chlorofluorocarbons. Scisat also monitors pollutants like soot and particles from forest fires, which have been particularly severe in Canada this year. The satellite’s data has highlighted the growing concern that more frequent and intense wildfires are contributing to ozone layer depletion.

In addition to tracking pollutants, Scisat provides valuable insights into their vertical distribution in the atmosphere. Its instruments record spectra of sunlight passing through the atmosphere, enabling scientists to analyze chemical elements. The satellite has also contributed to studies on water vapor in the stratosphere following volcanic eruptions.

While Canada has yet to develop a direct successor to Scisat, the country is in the early stages of developing WildFireSat, a satellite optimized for tracking active fires and aiding first responders.

The longevity of Scisat raises an important consideration for future missions. NASA and the European Space Agency have also acknowledged the need to ensure the continuous replacement or enhancement of aging satellites. Ongoing observations and data collection are critical for understanding climate change and promoting public safety.

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