
Space observation helps us to monitor water quality and protect biodiversity
Interview of Kerstin Stelzer, Physical geographer, Brockmann Consult, Hamburg, Germany
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Season 1, episode 54
9 min /
Published
When using satellite data to assess water quality, the satellite-based instrument measures the light that is reflected from the water body. Within the water there are certain ingredients that influence the colour. We can detect algae blooms, which appear in green and observe their distribution. By combining these observations with in situ testing and models, we can provide users such as administrations, aquafarms and citizens with important information about the toxicity of these algae blooms and predict their growth and localisation.
When using satellite data to assess water quality, the satellite-based instrument measures the light that is reflected from the water body. Within the water there are certain ingredients that influence the colour. We can detect algae blooms, which appear in green and observe their distribution. By combining these observations with in situ testing and models, we can provide users such as administrations, aquafarms and citizens with important information about the toxicity of these algae blooms and predict their growth and localisation.
This episode is part of the SPACE FOR OUR PLANET series
Space solutions for a sustainable world
Check out all the episodes of SPACE FOR OUR PLANET

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Using Space, we can forecast air quality and fight epidemics
Interview of Isabel Franco Trigo, Coordinator Earth Observation Unit, IPMA, Lisbon, Portugal
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We can follow the dynamics of climate change to monitor infrastructures and build early warning systems
Interview of Kai Fürstenberg, Projectleader Institut der Feuerwehr NRW, Münster, Germany

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