Researchers have discovered that sewage contamination in water absorbs certain wavelengths of light, making it visible from space. This breakthrough could revolutionize the way we monitor water quality, allowing for more efficient and effective testing of swimming spots. With the help of space-based instruments, authorities may soon be able to identify areas with high levels of sewage contamination, ensuring a safer experience for beachgoers.
Forecast for 6 months: Within the next six months, we can expect to see the launch of the GLIMR space-based instrument, which will be focused on monitoring water quality along the U.S. coasts and the Gulf of Mexico. This will mark a significant step towards implementing space-based solutions for tracking sewage contamination.
Forecast for 1 year: By the end of the year, we can anticipate the first practical applications of space-based sewage tracking, with authorities using this technology to identify high-risk areas and implement targeted testing and cleanup efforts.
Forecast for 5 years: Within the next five years, space-based sewage tracking is likely to become a standard tool for water quality monitoring, with widespread adoption across the globe. This will lead to a significant reduction in the number of beach closures and a safer experience for millions of people.
Forecast for 10 years: By the end of the decade, we can expect to see the development of even more advanced space-based technologies for tracking sewage contamination, including the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze data and predict high-risk areas.
