SMART-AQ

SMART AQ project (Satellite Monitoring of Aerosols for Reliable Tracking of air quality), supported by ESA, aims to develop a product to enhance air quality monitoring for emitting industries, mines, and policymakers.

Current methodologies for air quality monitoring are either limited in spatial coverage, lack accuracy or have limited scalability. SMART AQ develops a new methodology using the GAPMAP satellite constellation, advanced multi-angle polarimetric (MAP) observations, and integration of public data through advanced algorithmic developments. This approach will provide high-resolution, accurate air quality data, initially focusing on particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and expanding to gas monitoring.

Downstream applications for emitting industries include real-time monitoring of emissions, enabling better compliance with environmental regulations and more effective mitigation strategies. For policymakers, SMART AQ will provide detailed air quality data to inform public health decisions, develop targeted pollution control policies, and track the effectiveness of regulations over time. This comprehensive monitoring system will support efforts to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and protect public health.