NASA-ISRO satellite to offer insights into forests, wetlands in climate-change watch - The Federal

The collaboration between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on the NISAR satellite mission is a significant advancement in Earth observation. The NISAR satellite, utilizing synthetic aperture radar technology, is poised to offer invaluable insights into two pivotal ecosystems—forests and wetlands. This data will allow for a deeper understanding of how these ecosystems are being affected by climate change and how they can be managed to mitigate its impacts.

The potential applications of NISAR's data are vast and offer promising solutions across various environmental sectors:

Deforestation Monitoring: Real-time detection and ongoing monitoring of deforestation, even in remote or inaccessible areas, will aid governments and conservation groups in protecting forests and enforcing environmental regulations.

Wetland Preservation: Tracking changes in wetland extent and inundation over time will assist in sustainable wetland management and mitigating the effects of climate change, such as flooding and sea-level rise.

Forest Health Assessment: By assessing the health of forests and identifying areas at risk of disease or stress, NISAR data can empower forest managers to develop strategies for protection and restoration.

Accurate Flood Mapping: Creating more precise flood maps using NISAR data will not only reduce flood-related damages but also help in saving lives by facilitating better disaster preparedness and response.

Invasive Species Monitoring: Tracking the spread of invasive species will aid in preventing their establishment in new areas and mitigate damage to ecosystems.

NISAR is poised to revolutionize the approach to studying and managing Earth's ecosystems. By providing scientists with a powerful tool to monitor forests and wetlands, it will significantly contribute to a better comprehension of how these critical ecosystems are responding to climate change. This, in turn, will guide strategies to protect and sustain these environments for future generations.

The satellite's ability to capture data every 12 days will offer an unprecedented level of consistency in observing changes, providing a more comprehensive view of the dynamics of these ecosystems. The applications of this data extend not only to scientific research but also to practical environmental management strategies, offering a beacon of hope in the global fight against climate change.