Latest news with #LivingPlanetSymposium
Broadcast Pro
30-06-2025
- Science
- Broadcast Pro
Kenya Space Agency joins Space Climate Observatory Charter
The partnership will facilitate knowledge transfer, training, and capacity-building initiatives for Kenyan space sector stakeholders, enhancing their skills in Earth observation, data analysis, and climate change research. During the Living Planet Symposium held in Vienna, Austria, the Director General of the Kenya Space Agency (KSA), Brig. Hillary Kipkosgey, formally signed the Space for Climate Observatory (SCO) Charter. This milestone brings Kenya into a global partnership dedicated to harnessing space-based technologies and data to better understand and combat the impacts of climate change. The SCO initiative unites space agencies, research institutions, and organisations worldwide to share Earth observation data, scientific knowledge, and best practices in climate monitoring. Kenyas accession was made possible through collaboration with the French National Centre for Space Studies (CNES) and support from Expertise France under the Data Governance in Africa programme, an initiative funded by the European Union and several European nations in partnership with the African Union Commission. By joining the SCO network, KSA will gain access to advanced technologies, resources, and expertise that will enhance the ability of Kenyan institutions to track and analyse climate-related trends both nationally and across the region. This collaboration is expected to significantly strengthen climate resilience efforts by providing policymakers, scientists, and stakeholders with critical data for informed decision-making and sustainable development. The partnership also emphasises capacity building, with dedicated training and knowledge transfer initiatives designed to develop the skills of Kenyan professionals in Earth observation, data analysis, and climate research. Moreover, Kenyas involvement will contribute to broader regional cooperation, enabling the country to share expertise with other African nations working to address climate challenges. Brig. Kipkosgey said: 'We are thrilled to join the Space Climate Observatory network, which will enable us to harness the power of space-based data and technologies to address the pressing challenges of climate change in Kenya and beyond. We look forward to collaborating with CNES, Expertise France, and other SCO members to enhance our capacity and contribute to a more climate-resilient future.' The SCOs global mission reflects a growing recognition that tackling climate change requires both international cooperation and the transformative power of space technology. Kenyas participation marks a significant step in advancing scientific capabilities and collaborative action for the continent.
Broadcast Pro
25-06-2025
- Science
- Broadcast Pro
ESA unveils first images from Biomass satellite
Biomass is the first satellite to carry a P-band synthetic aperture radar, its signal capable of penetrating forest canopies to measure woody biomass trunks, branches and stems. At the Living Planet Symposium, the European Space Agency (ESA) unveiled the first images captured by its newly launched Biomass satellite, offering an early glimpse into what promises to be a major advance in understanding Earths forests and their role in the global carbon cycle. Although the mission is still in its early commissioning phase, the initial results signal strong potential for scientific insights, not only into forested regions but also some of the planet's most remote and extreme landscapes. Launched under ESAs FutureEO programme less than two months ago, the Biomass mission is the latest in the agencys Earth Explorer series. Its primary aim is to measure the amount of carbon stored in forests by observing woody biomass including trunks, branches, and stems a critical step in monitoring climate change and forest health. This is made possible by the satellites unique payload: a pioneering P-band synthetic aperture radar, which can penetrate dense forest canopies to generate precise biomass data. Michael Fehringer, ESAs Biomass Project Manager, said: 'As is routine, were still in the commissioning phase, fine-tuning the satellite to ensure it delivers the highest quality data for scientists to accurately determine how much carbon is stored in the worlds forests. 'Biomass is equipped with novel space technology, so weve been closely monitoring its performance in orbit, and were very pleased to report that everything is functioning smoothly and its first images are nothing short of spectacular and theyre only a mere glimpse of what is still to come.' The data being returned so far is not yet calibrated for use in carbon quantification or scientific analysis. However, the clarity and quality of the initial images confirm that the satellite and its complex systems are functioning as designed. ESAs Director of Earth Observation Programmes, Simonetta Cheli, added: 'Looking at these first images, its clear to see that our Earth Explorer Biomass satellite is set to deliver on its promise. 'We fully expect that this new mission will provide a groundbreaking leap in our ability to understand Earth's forests combining cutting-edge radar technology with the scientific excellence that will unlock vital insights into carbon storage, climate change, and the health of our planets precious forest ecosystems.' As Biomass continues to settle into its orbital routine, scientists and policymakers alike are looking ahead to the transformative data it will provide, shaping global efforts to combat climate change and protect the Earths natural resources.
