Scripps CO2 Instrument at Mauna Loa Observatory Back in Action

Robert MonroeAnnouncement, Daily Measurements, Keeling Curve History, Measurement Notes

Helicopter delivers photovoltaic rails, electrical conduit, and solar panels to Mauna Loa Observatory. Photo: Scott Prestien/EPC We are happy to report that measurements by the Scripps CO2 program resumed at Mauna Loa Observatory on March 9.   The CO2 analyzer is being powered with a solar power/battery system installed by NOAA staff at the Mauna Loa Observatory using helicopter access.  The … Read More

Historic Keeling Curve Observation Interrupted by Volcanic Eruption

Robert MonroeAnnouncement, Keeling Curve History, Measurement Notes

Photo: NOAA   The carbon dioxide measurement equipment that maintains the famed Keeling Curve record lost power at 6:30 p.m. Nov. 28 and is not currently recording data. Mauna Loa, the world’s largest active volcano, erupted at 1:30 a.m. PST on Nov. 28 after weeks of heightened internal activity. Researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, which … Read More

Animation of Keeling Curve History Updated to Include 2019 Milestone

Robert MonroeKeeling Curve History, Videos

We’ve updated the animation of the Keeling Curve to include recent measurements and the surpassing of a new milestone: Global carbon dioxide levels in the global atmosphere as measured at the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii surpassed  415 parts per million of carbon dioxide in May. Higher resolution versions are available through scrippsnews@ucsd.edu.  

Video: How Scientists Measure Carbon Dioxide

Robert MonroeKeeling Curve History, Measurement Notes, Videos

In honor of the 60th anniversary of the Keeling Curve, Ralph Keeling of the Scripps CO2 Program shows how scientists make carbon dioxide measurements and gives a guided tour of the original instruments his father, Charles David Keeling, developed to start the famous record known as the Keeling Curve. In 2018, carbon dioxide levels are expected to exceed 410 parts … Read More