Application of Sentinel-5P Satellite Data for Determining Atmospheric SO₂ Concentrations in Lao Cai Province

Abstract

Lao Cai is a locality experiencing rapid socio-economic development, particularly in the Tang Loong industrial zone, where numerous metallurgical and chemical facilities, as well as intensive transport and heavy industrial activities, are concentrated. These activities have increased pressure on local air quality, adversely affecting the living environment of residents. This paper presents the results of applying Sentinel-5P satellite data from the TROPOMI sensor to analyze atmospheric SO₂ concentrations in Lao Cai province during the period 2019–2024. Data processing was conducted on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud computing platform and subsequently compiled into quarterly and annual maps of SO₂ concentration distribution. The results reveal clear spatial and temporal variations in SO₂ concentrations across Lao Cai. This information provides an objective and effective basis for air quality management and monitoring in the study area.