Greenhouse gases like CO₂ and CH₄ drive climate change. Satellites enable monitoring of these emissions from space. Our simulations show that the upcoming Twin ANthropogenic Greenhouse gas Observers (TANGO) mission can detect about 500 targets per 4 d cycle under clear skies, but cloud cover reduces detection. Integrating cloud forecasts into TANGO’s manoeuvering boosts detection, highlighting its potential for improving global emission monitoring.