Launch & Locate: Airborne Methane Detection, Geolocation & Cross-Cueing

The consequences of failure in the Oil and Gas sector are catastrophic. The risk to life of those operating in the industry is well known and managed however another risk exists. Unseen to us all and misunderstood by many yet equally catastrophic if not addressed. It is also a risk to us as a species. Methane has a mean atmospheric lifetime of 11.8 years, a Global Warming Potential (GWP) 81.2 (± 43 % relative) times that of carbon dioxide over a twenty-year period and 27.9 (± 47 % relative) times over a hundred-year period\*. The danger Methane presents to our planet is very real, yet the extent of anthropogenic emissions, specifically fugitive emissions, remains relatively unknown. Whilst the venting and flaring of methane can be managed through regulation and governance, fugitive emissions will continue to go unnoticed unless located, characterised, addressed and monitored.

\* The Earth's Energy Budget, Climate Feedbacks and Climate Sensitivity -- Assessment Report No.6, Supplement No.7

To address the Methane intelligence gap, BIG SKY THEORY will present a new airborne reconnaissance role to emissions management doctrine, a force multiplier designed to drastically reduce the time taken to source leaks. Using drones to detect and characterise emissions from the air, BIG SKY THEORY will create preliminary surveys of sites to assist in UK Oil and Gas Methane management programmes. Whilst providing timely intelligence, Launch & Locate will also negate the need for hazardous ground-based inspections.

Working alongside Innovate UK and the National Physical Laboratory, BIG SKY THEORY will play a crucial role in the safe, efficient, effective and timely provision of methane emissions intelligence. The most effective means to understand emissions at scale is via airborne detection and characterisation. Harnessing the very best hardware, software, industry expertise and aviation acumen, BIG SKY THEORY will deploy, monitor and manage airborne sensors, bringing height, speed and reach to the most inhospitable environments.

Small teams operating in a non-interference based format will support concurrent operational delivery and emissions management and rectification. The reconnaissance role drawing focus to areas of interest providing critical awareness of fugitive methane emissions.

For the UK to meet NET ZERO Strategy targets locating Methane emissions is critical. Investment in understanding the challenge before us will ultimately save time, money and the environment for generations to come.