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China launches first terrestrial ecosystem carbon monitoring satellite

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By Feng Hua, Zhang Wei, People’s Daily
  
China recently successfully launched a terrestrial ecosystem carbon monitoring
satellite from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in north China’s Shanxi Province.
Named “Goumang,” the satellite is expected to provide remote sensing services and
improve the efficiency and accuracy of carbon sink measurement, providing important
support for the country’s efforts to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and
achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.
As a scientific research satellite under the framework of China’s medium and long-
term development plan of national civilian space infrastructure, Goumang will operate
in a sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of 506 kilometers, inclined 97.4 degrees,
according to Cao Haiyi, chief designer of Goumang.
The satellite is able to detect and measure such factors as vegetation biomass,
atmospheric aerosol and chlorophyll fluorescence through comprehensive remote
sensing means, including laser, multi-angle, multi-spectral, hyperspectral, and
polarization.
The satellite can provide a wide variety of services, such as monitoring carbon in the
terrestrial ecosystem, surveying and monitoring terrestrial ecology and resources,
monitoring and evaluating major environmental protection projects, monitoring the
atmospheric environment, and obtaining data about the effect of aerosols on climate
change.
Moreover, the satellite will also meet the needs for the determination of vertical
control points, disaster monitoring and evaluation, and agricultural forecasting. It will
significantly boost quantitative land remote sensing in China.
The satellite can obtain information about global forest carbon sinks through both
active and passive remote sensing. This will help enhance the country’s capability to
monitor and measure carbon sinks in various ecosystems, including forests,
grasslands, wetlands and desertified land.
Equipped with payloads including laser radar, multi-angle and multi-spectral camera,
hyperspectral detector and polarization imager, Goumang can monitor key data on
carbon sink capacity of forests, including plant height, vegetation coverage,
chlorophyll fluorescence, and PM2.5 concentrations, helping improve the efficiency
and accuracy of carbon sink measurement.
The multi-beam laser radar enables the satellite to measure the height of a tree by
calculating the difference between the time when the laser beams scan the crown of
the tree and the time when the laser beams scan the ground.

Through statistical analysis and application tests, the research and development
(R&D) team has managed to use five laser devices on the radar to emit laser beams
200 times in one second, eventually shortening the distance between two objects to be
monitored from several thousand meters to several hundred meters and significantly
improving the accuracy of plant height measurement.
The satellite has five multi-spectral cameras, which can help monitor the Earth from
five angles. This enables the satellite to accurately measure vegetation coverage and
the density of forests. The five multi-spectral cameras can help the satellite create a
three-dimensional map with high accuracy of the distribution of vegetation in the area
monitored by the satellite.
The satellite’s ability to accurately map the distribution of chlorophyll fluorescence
offers important support for the efficient and precise measurement of carbon sinks. To
improve the accuracy of detecting the spectrum of chlorophyll fluorescence, which
emits only a very small amount of energy, a hyperspectral detector has been installed
in the satellite and the theory of grating spectrometer has been applied, which
increased the spectral resolution by tenfold, enabling the device to detect even the
most subtle change in daylight intensity.
In order to remove the atmospheric effects, a polarization imager has been installed on
the satellite, which is able to detect PM2.5 concentrations from 35 angles and obtain
information about horizontal PM2.5 concentrations.
In addition, the satellite is also equipped with a laser radar, which can help monitor
longitudinal PM2.5 concentrations. These two payloads enable the satellite to provide
information about PM2.5 concentrations from three dimensions, guaranteeing a
higher level of accuracy for atmospheric correction.
The launch of Goumang marked the 430th mission of the Long March rocket family.
Also launched on the same rocket were two small satellites, namely the Jiaotong 4
and the Minhang Youth.
The Jiaotong 4 will be used to collect information about ship movements and flight
statuses around the globe, as well as information about the global Internet of Things
(IoT). The Minhang Youth, which is designated as a platform for young students to
partake in space science research and engineering practice activities, including
satellite design, satellite R&D, satellite payloads, and satellite launch, will carry out
applied scientific research on space-Earth integrated carbon source monitoring.

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HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI

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The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.

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EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE

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The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion

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Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.

In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.

According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.

“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.

The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.

“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.

Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.

“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.

Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.

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