Auckland University astrophysics professor Richard Easther has expressed disappointment over the delayed launch of the $29m MethaneSAT satellite, which was expected to track methane emissions from space and encourage emitters to mitigate them. The project, led by the Environmental Defence Fund, received significant funding from billionaire Jeff Bezos’ Earth Fund.
Easther believes that public accountability is crucial for taxpayer-funded missions like MethaneSAT, citing the lack of transparency surrounding its delayed mission control handover. “I would expect accountability to be public,” he said. Auckland University lecturer Michele Bannister echoed Easther’s sentiments, suggesting that future taxpayer-funded space missions should follow a contestable process.
The project faced delays in 2022 and was initially expected to launch by the end of 2024. However, the Space Agency has refused to disclose reasons for the delay, citing confidentiality. The agency has promised to provide an update within two weeks on the next stage of the mission.
Easther’s comments highlight concerns over the lack of public disclosure about the project’s progress and timeline. As a publicly funded mission, transparency is essential, according to Easther, who believes that openness would be beneficial for what he describes as a “really strong” initiative to track methane emissions from space.
Source: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/543555/lack-of-transparency-over-29m-methanesat-government-satellite-astronomers-say