Pandemic Impact from Space

Nitrogen dioxide emissions over Spain compared between a 10-day period this month and the monthly average of March 2019.  (Image: © Copernicus Sentinel data (2019-20), processed by KNMI/ESA)

It takes a global pandemic to reduce air pollution. 

As countries have shut down to slow the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, satellites in orbit around Earth are noticing changes to our home world.

Specifically, orbiting instruments are observing reductions in emissions and in night lighting as people follow orders to stay home and reduce contact with others. Such approaches are vital in slowing the jump from person to person of the new coronavirus that causes the COVID-19 disease. However, these measures are also reducing the visibility of humanity on Earth.