SMOS_ESASentinel1_galleryThis project  deals with the development of a novel Earth Observation pioneer application in response to authoritative end-user requirements.
 
SGR 5This novel application will lead to the provision of a production system to deliver routine and repeat high resolution measurements of surface soil moisture derived from the Sentinel-1 C-SAR in synergy with the Earth Explorer mission SMOS. High resolution soil moisture is critically needed for the improvement of forecasts and early warning of a variety of plagues. Specifically, this project addresses the use of soil moisture to preventive management of Desert locust.
 
Plagues of Desert locusts Schistocerca gregaria (Forskål, 1775) have threatened agricultural production in Africa, the Middle East and Asia for centuries. At least 10% of the world’s human population can be affected by swarms of this insect. In terms of economic costs, roughly US$275 million was contributed by donors to help manage the 1987-1988 crisis. The total costs of control, food assistance and rehabilitation for communities affected by the 2003-2005 invasion were estimated at US$400 million.