High-resolution observations of NO₂ and CO₂ emission plumes from EnMAP satellite measurements

Abstract Accurate quantification of emissions from anthropogenic sources is crucial for monitoring greenhouse gases and air pollution. Nitrogen oxides (NO x ) and carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) are of particular interest due to their role in atmospheric chemistry and global warming, respectively. Satellite observations are a key component for independent monitoring of emissions on a global scale. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time the simultaneous detection of NO 2 and CO 2 in power plant plumes from environmental mapping and analysis program satellite measurements with a spatial resolution of a few tens of metres and up to several tens of kilometres downwind. Our results enable us to estimate CO 2 and NO x emissions from thermal power plants, study the chemistry of emission plumes and derive NO x /CO 2 ratios reflecting power plant characteristics.