CompassCom Unveils Game-Changing CompassLDE Connectors

CompassCom Software has unveiled its cutting-edge CompassLDE Connectors, designed to integrate seamlessly with Esri ArcGIS solutions.

These connectors empower users to access real-time location and status data for their assets within their ArcGIS maps, as well as conduct in-depth analysis of operational data.

The CompassLDE Connectors significantly enhance personnel safety, increase operational efficiency, and support the achievement of sustainability targets.

CompassCom CEO W. Brant Howard explained, “Our innovative plug-and-play CompassLDE Connectors now enable Esri users at all ArcGIS product levels to visualize live location and status information for their vehicles, staff, and equipment on their GIS displays. Advanced Esri users can leverage CompassLDE telemetry data with their big data analytics applications to gain valuable insights into their operations.”

CompassCom has developed CompassLDE Connectors for three Esri products:

  • ArcGIS Online
  • ArcGIS GeoEvent Processor
  • ArcGIS Velocity

Widely adopted across North America by public works, public safety, street maintenance, and transportation departments at both state and local government levels, CompassLDE (Location Data Engine) was initially created as an Automated Vehicle Location (AVL) data engine. It subsequently evolved into a mobile resource management solution capable of tracking any GPS-enabled device. Today, CompassLDE serves as a versatile on-premises or cloud-based server that can monitor thousands of assets across multiple fleets and various wireless communication networks.

In its latest iteration, CompassCom has expanded CompassLDE’s capabilities to collect an almost infinite range of sensor inputs, or telemetry, from field assets. Predominantly associated with vehicle activities, this data encompasses Ignition On/Off, Engine Diagnostics, Idle Time, Material Spreader On/Off, Plow Up/Down, Miles Traveled, and other data points. The server can even monitor the amount of sand or chemicals dispensed by a snowplow, as an example.

The groundbreaking CompassLDE Connectors by CompassCom Software represent a significant leap forward in asset tracking and management. By seamlessly integrating with Esri ArcGIS solutions, users can now access a wealth of real-time data and insights, optimizing decision-making processes and resource allocation. The potential applications of this technology extend across various industries and sectors, promising a brighter future of increased safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability.

 

Maxar’s Vivid Standard: The Future of Global Mapping

Maxar Technologies has just unveiled an exciting new upgrade to their popular global basemap.

The new and improved Vivid Standard boasts a remarkable 30-centimeter per pixel resolution, a significant improvement from the previous 50-centimeter resolution, making it the most detailed global basemap yet.

Thanks to this enhanced resolution, the Vivid Standard has the capability to identify even the smallest of structures. Moreover, the basemap provides a highly accurate view of new roads, buildings, and vegetation, making it an essential tool for those who rely on precise mapping information.

“We are able to do a lot more things with 30-centimeter imagery, which we have not been able to do previously,” explained Sid Dixit, Maxar’s vice president of engineering and product. “We can identify structures like bus stops and traffic lights, and we get a very accurate view of new roads, vegetation and buildings.”

Maxar’s Vivid Standard basemap is available to over 220 customers, who can utilize it for a range of applications, including training, gaming, and planning. By coupling the basemap with artificial intelligence, organizations can create highly realistic 3D simulations, which will undoubtedly transform the way we interact with maps.

To create the Vivid Standard, Maxar combines an incredible 400,000 image strips, maintaining image consistency by using cloud-free imagery from the spring and summer months. The new basemap includes both native 30-centimeter per pixel resolution imagery and lower-resolution imagery enhanced through the use of AI and machine learning.

Maxar’s team is not stopping here, as they plan to continue to improve the Vivid basemap even further by aiming for an unprecedented 15 centimeters per pixel resolution in the future. This order of magnitude improvement would undoubtedly revolutionize our understanding of the world from space.

Overall, the new Vivid Standard basemap is a remarkable achievement that showcases Maxar’s commitment to innovation and technology. We can’t wait to see what other groundbreaking developments will come from these industry innovators in the future.

Space Tech Revolution in Farming & Agriculture

The farming and agriculture sectors are undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by the space industry’s innovations in satellite technology, data analytics, and cutting-edge research.

These advancements enable farmers to precisely monitor and manage resources, optimize plant and animal health, and address the challenges of climate change and a growing global population. By revolutionizing agricultural practices, the space industry is fostering a sustainable and efficient future for our planet, benefiting generations to come.

Precision Agriculture and Satellite Technology

Precision agriculture has revolutionized farming by tapping into satellite technology to perfect crop management. Farmers now have access to crisp images and real-time data, empowering them to monitor and adapt their practices as needed. Satellite-based remote sensing enables precise evaluations of soil moisture, nutrient levels, and plant health, helping farmers make informed decisions. This accuracy leads to reduced waste, increased yields, and minimized environmental impact, ensuring agriculture’s sustainable future. Furthermore, this technology democratizes access to advanced farming tools for small-scale farmers, leveling the playing field and enhancing overall productivity.

 

Climate and Weather Forecasting for Crop Management

Space-based weather monitoring has significantly refined weather forecasting, equipping farmers to better plan and react to fluctuating environmental conditions. Accurate weather predictions enable farmers to make educated decisions about planting, irrigation, and pest control, ultimately boosting crop yields and minimizing losses due to unpredictable weather events. Moreover, advanced climate models rooted in satellite data help farmers recognize trends and anticipate long-term shifts in weather patterns. This foresight allows them to adapt their strategies and create resilient agricultural systems capable of withstanding the trials of climate change.

 

Livestock Management and Sustainability

The space sector has made significant strides in improving livestock management and sustainabilityby integrating satellite data, remote sensing, and innovative research. Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) employs satellite technology and IoT devices to monitor animal behavior, health, and productivity in real-time. This allows farmers to remotely assess welfare, manage nutrition, and address health issues quickly. The technology bolsters livestock productivity and animal welfare while reducing antibiotic reliance, fostering responsible and sustainable farming practices. Satellite data and remote sensing also facilitate disease monitoring and early detection, enabling farmers to implement preventive measures, curtail disease outbreaks, and diminish the economic impact on the sector. High-resolution satellite imagery further aids grazing management, ensuring livestock receive proper nutrition while preventing overgrazing and land degradation. The space industry’s influence on livestock farming fuels the development of pioneering technologies and practices that champion animal welfare, economic efficiency, and environmental sustainability, bolstering a more sustainable and resilient future for agriculture.

 

Advancements in Plant and Soil Science Research

The International Space Station (ISS) has served as a unique laboratory for agricultural research, as it provides scientists with an unparalleled opportunity to study plant growth and soil composition in microgravity. This research has led to new discoveries in plant biology and soil chemistry, which can be applied to enhance crop production on Earth. For example, studies conducted in microgravity have revealed insights into how plants respond to stress, enabling researchers to develop crops that are more resistant to diseases and pests. As we learn more about the relationship between plants and their environment, we’ll be better equipped to develop more resilient and adaptive farming practices that maximize productivity while minimizing resource usage.

 

Developing Drought-Resistant and High-Yield Crops

Space research has played a crucial role in developing drought-resistant and high-yield crops. By studying plants in controlled environments, scientists can gain a better understanding of genetic traits that contribute to increased resilience. This knowledge is then used to develop new crop strains that can flourish in challenging environments, ensuring food security for growing populations worldwide. The development of these advanced crop varieties not only empowers farmers to maintain productivity in the face of water scarcity and climate change but also lessens the need for irrigation and other resource-intensive farming practices. Ultimately, this leads to a more sustainable agricultural sector.

Resource Management and Sustainable Farming Practices

Satellite imagery and data analysis empower farmers to monitor and manage their resources more efficiently, leading to more sustainable farming practices. For example, satellite data can be utilized to optimize irrigation schedules, conserve water, and decrease fertilizer use. These benefits extend beyond the environment, also lowering operational costs for farmers and making sustainable farming more economically viable. Moreover, satellite-based monitoring systems help detect and prevent deforestation and land degradation, preserving valuable ecosystems and promoting responsible land management practices.

 

The space industry has had an undeniable positive impact on farming and agriculture, paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future. As the sector continues to advance, the knowledge and technology we gain will further enhance our ability to feed a growing population while preserving our planet.

By embracing these innovations, we can work together to address the challenges of food security, climate change, and resource management, ensuring a thriving and sustainable world for generations to come.

Advancing Environmental Monitoring With Space Technology

As the climate crisis looms, the space industry emerges as an essential player in both understanding and addressing this existential challenge.

With advancements in space technologies, we are witnessing a revolution in environmental monitoring and climate resilience. This expert article delves into the crucial role of the space industry in tackling climate change, highlighting the remarkable innovations that are transforming our capacity to monitor, mitigate, and adapt to our rapidly evolving environment.

 

Satellite Monitoring

Satellites have fundamentally changed the way we observe and analyze Earth’s ecosystems and climate patterns. High-resolution images and precise data from Earth observation satellites enable real-time monitoring of climate change indicators, including deforestation, ice-sheet melting, and ocean temperature fluctuations.

The European Space Agency’s Copernicus program epitomizes the impact of satellite technology. By monitoring greenhouse gas emissions, air quality, and land use change, this program has yielded invaluable insights into Earth’s interconnected systems. Consequently, policymakers can devise targeted climate strategies and sustainable development plans, equipping societies to confront the climate crisis head-on.

 

Space-Based Solar Power

Space-based solar power, an ambitious concept in the space industry, could potentially transform our energy landscape. By capturing sunlight in space through expansive solar panels and transmitting it to Earth’s power grids, we can access an inexhaustible, clean energy source. Operating in space, solar panels receive sunlight continuously and avoid atmospheric disturbances, increasing efficiency.

This technology promises substantial greenhouse gas emission reductions, contributing significantly to the global climate change mitigation efforts. Although still in its infancy, ongoing research and development led by organizations like NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) bring this cutting-edge innovation closer to realization.

 

Building Climate Resilience with Space Technologies

Space technologies extend beyond monitoring and mitigation, bolstering climate adaptation initiatives as well. Utilizing satellite data, early warning systems for extreme weather events—such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts—can be developed, empowering governments and communities to prepare for and respond to these threats.

Additionally, satellite-based communication systems are indispensable for coordinating disaster relief and recovery efforts, offering real-time updates on affected regions and facilitating the efficient allocation of resources. As climate change exacerbates natural disasters, such applications prove crucial for vulnerable communities and regions.

 

Space Technology and Ocean Conservation

The application of space technology to ocean conservation efforts presents exciting possibilities for preserving Earth’s vital marine ecosystems. Satellite-based remote sensing provides crucial data on sea surface temperatures, ocean currents, and phytoplankton distribution, informing climate models and marine research. These insights help scientists understand the effects of climate change on ocean life and ecosystems, such as coral reefs, and the subsequent impacts on global carbon cycles. As we uncover the secrets beneath the waves, we can harness these innovations to better understand and protect our blue planet.

Furthermore, satellite data is instrumental in combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, a significant threat to marine biodiversity and sustainable fisheries. By tracking and analyzing vessel movements, authorities can identify and intercept illegal fishing activities, ensuring the protection of marine habitats and promoting sustainable fishing practices.

 

Exploring Climate Change Mitigation through Geoengineering

Geoengineering is an emerging field that explores the potential of large-scale interventions to mitigate climate change. Space technologies could play a vital role in these endeavors. For instance, Solar Radiation Management (SRM) techniques, such as deploying sunshades in space or launching reflective aerosols into the stratosphere, could reflect sunlight away from Earth, effectively cooling the planet. Another potential approach is Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR), which aims to capture and store atmospheric carbon dioxide, counteracting the greenhouse effect.

While these concepts are still theoretical and require careful evaluation of potential risks and ethical considerations, they highlight the innovative applications of space technology in combating climate change. Harnessing the expertise and resources of the space industry could accelerate research and development in this domain, bringing about novel solutions that could be pivotal in addressing global warming.

 

As we further explore the vastness of space, untapped potential for innovative climate solutions awaits. By fostering collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and the space industry, we can harness these ground-breaking advancements to forge a sustainable, resilient future for our planet.

Space Tech for a Safer World: Disaster Management

Natural disasters have increased in frequency and severity in recent years, causing significant loss of life and property damage worldwide.

In response, space technologies have emerged as powerful tools in disaster management, providing ground-breaking innovations that can save lives, minimize damage, and contribute to building a more resilient and sustainable future for all.

Earth observation satellites, satellite communications, and satellite imagery and mapping are among the tools that can aid in disaster monitoring, early warning systems, disaster response and recovery, disaster prevention and mitigation, and promoting resilience through infrastructure improvements and preparedness.

The pivotal role that space technologies play in enhancing disaster response and recovery efforts cannot be overstated. To celebrate Earth Day 2023, we’re exploring the many contributions of space technologies in disaster management, emphasizing their importance in mitigating the impact of natural disasters and building a safer and more resilient world.

 

Earth Observation Satellites: Keeping a Watchful Eye 

Earth observation satellites equipped with advanced sensors are used to monitor various environmental conditions and natural disasters. These satellites provide critical data that enables faster and more accurate predictions, which are crucial for proactive disaster management. Continuous monitoring of environmental variables, such as weather patterns, helps meteorologists track extreme weather events, ensuring better preparedness for areas prone to natural disasters.

 

Satellite Communications: Bridging the Gap

During and after a natural disaster, communication networks are often compromised, but satellite communication systems can provide a lifeline by enabling real-time information sharing between emergency responders, even in remote and devastated areas. This connectivity facilitates rapid, coordinated response efforts and accelerates the recovery process during the critical early stages of disaster response.

 

Satellite Imagery and Mapping: A bird’s-eye View of Disaster Zones

High-resolution satellite imagery helps emergency managers assess damage, identify priority areas for response, and monitor recovery processes. Satellite imagery is also essential in creating accurate maps of disaster zones, invaluable for emergency responders navigating unfamiliar terrain. By overlaying these maps with data such as population density, infrastructure, and transportation networks, vulnerable communities can receive timely assistance.

 

Space-based Technologies for Disaster Prevention and Mitigation

The space industry plays a vital role in preventing and mitigating disaster impacts. Satellite-based monitoring systems detect ground movement, providing early warning of potential landslides and volcanic eruptions. Satellites also monitor human activities contributing to increased flood risk, allowing for timely interventions and better land management strategies. Emerging technologies like satellite-based remote sensing enable monitoring of drought conditions and crop failure detection, helping to prevent food shortages and famines.

 

International Cooperation and Collaboration

The space industry fosters international cooperation and collaboration in disaster relief and emergency recovery. Space agencies and private companies share satellite data and resources, significantly improving natural disaster response. Initiatives like the International Charter on Space and Major Disasters provide a framework for global collaboration in using space-based resources during times of crisis, ensuring the most effective and efficient use of these assets.

 

Satellite-based Internet: Connectivity for Remote Areas

Satellite-based internet solutions, such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, offer fast and reliable internet access to remote areas. In the aftermath of a disaster, these systems can help restore connectivity, facilitating communication between affected communities and emergency response teams. This technology also promotes access to critical information, enabling residents to receive updates, alerts, and safety guidelines in real-time.

 

Promoting Resilience through Improved Infrastructure and Preparedness

The space industry’s contributions to disaster relief extend to promoting resilience in communities through improved infrastructure and preparedness. Satellite data informs urban planning and engineering projects, enabling the construction of more resilient structures and the development of effective evacuation plans. By integrating space-derived information into disaster risk reduction strategies, communities can better anticipate, prepare for, and respond to natural disasters.

 

Expanding Research and Development in Disaster Relief Technologies

The space industry has encouraged the research and development of new technologies specifically tailored to disaster relief efforts. This research includes the development of advanced remote sensing technologies, machine learning algorithms for data analysis, and drones for search and rescue operations. These innovations not only enhance the effectiveness of disaster response but also reduce the time it takes to reach affected populations.

 

Education and Public Awareness

The space industry plays a vital role in educating the public about the importance of disaster preparedness and the potential of space-based technologies to improve disaster response. By raising awareness and promoting the benefits of these technologies, the industry encourages investment and support for further innovation and the implementation of new solutions in disaster-prone areas.

 

Inspiring a Brighter Future for Humanity

The space industry’s contributions to disaster relief and emergency recovery highlight the potential of space-based technologies to benefit humanity. As the industry continues to innovate, we can anticipate further advancements in our ability to respond to and recover from natural disasters. Harnessing the power of space, we are not only exploring the cosmos but also working towards a safer, more resilient world. These advancements showcase human ingenuity and our collective ability to overcome adversity.

 

The space industry serves as both an engine for scientific discovery and a beacon of hope for a safer, more resilient world. By embracing the potential of space-based technologies, we are not only reaching for the stars but also working to create a better future for generations to come.

NASA Partners with Capella Space for Earth Observation Data

NASA has recently entered into a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) with Capella Space Corporation to acquire high-resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) commercial Earth observation data products.

The BPA is a sole source agreement, which means that only Capella Space Corporation is authorized to provide these services to NASA.

The contract requires Capella Space Corporation to deliver high-quality SAR commercial Earth observation data products that have a resolution ranging from 0.5 to 1.2 meters. NASA will issue fixed-price BPA Calls for these products, with a maximum value of $7 million per call. The work will be carried out at the contractor’s facilities, and other specified locations as required.

The contract period will last for five years from the effective date of the agreement. Capella Space Corporation will be responsible for providing a comprehensive catalogue of its high-resolution SAR commercial Earth observation data products, which must include data sets, metadata, ancillary information, data cadence, data latency, area coverage, and data usage policy.

NASA is procuring small constellation satellite data products from Capella Space Corporation for detailed evaluation and assessment. These data products may augment NASA’s collected data. To facilitate standard scientific collaborations, NASA has specified that the data products must comply with a government-defined End User License Agreement, which enables broad levels of dissemination and shareability of the commercial data with U.S. government agencies and partners.

Mach9 Unveils AI-Powered Geospatial Mapping Platform

Mach9, a North American company, has launched its first software platform, capable of producing 2D and 3D maps from mobile Lidar 30x faster than existing solutions.

The company utilises Artificial Intelligence (AI) and computer vision to produce 2D and 3D CAD and GIS engineering deliverables faster than ever before, according to Mach9.

“The organizations that own and manage our infrastructure are dependent on high-quality maps. New mapping technologies, like mobile Lidar, have transformative potential for engineering and construction firms, departments of transportation, electric utilities, railroads and other government entities. However, the high costs and long wait times required to generate mapping deliverables are hampering the broad adoption of these tools,” explained Alexander Baikovitz, co-founder and CEO.

Since the company’s foundation in 2021 at Carnegie Mellon University, Mach9 has been creating cutting-edge mapping and data collection systems. Its co-founders, Alexander Baikovitz, Haowen Shi, Michael Mong and Zachary Sussman, met during their time at CMU’s world-famous Robotics Institute. They realised that their combined experiences of developing complex robotic systems for autonomous mapping and mobility could be leveraged to help infrastructure organisations adopt technologies that ultimately improve everyday life.

“We leveraged our deep understanding of AI and computer vision capabilities to build a software solution that intelligently combines information from cameras, Lidar and other sources to create a holistic and comprehensive picture of the world. Ultimately, it is a very elegant solution to a complex problem that drastically reduces the time to create 2D and 3D maps,” commented Zach Sussman, head of software engineering.

Mach9’s launch comes amidst its pivot to a software-first business model, driven by the increasing demand for tools that accelerate geospatial data processing and analysis for infrastructure management. The rapidly growing geospatial technology industry has been driven by recent advances in data collection via reality-capture solutions such as 360-degree cameras, remote sensing on drones, and mobile Lidar. However, these massive datasets, which are often composed of both high-resolution imagery and Lidar point clouds, are highly complex and require labour-intensive and time-intensive processes to convert them into usable maps and digital twins.

To keep up with its future growth, Mach9 has upgraded its website, hired key engineering and sales leaders, moved into new headquarters in Pittsburgh’s Bloomfield neighbourhood, and established a presence in Silicon Valley. The platform is currently in beta with a select group of customers, but those interested can request a demo by completing a form on www.mach9.ai.

Chile’s Wildfires: Monitoring Reveals Alarming Carbon Emissions

In recent days, central and southern Chile have been experiencing dozens of devastating wildfires.

The dry weather, high temperatures, and strong winds in the area have exacerbated the situation, leading to a spike in emissions into the atmosphere. As a result, a large smoke plume has been transported across the Pacific Ocean. According to local officials, the wildfires have caused at least 26 fatalities, almost 1,000 injuries, and have affected over 270,000 hectares of territory.

The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) has been closely monitoring the situation and assessing the impact on the atmosphere.

CAMS Senior Scientist Mark Parrington stated, “Drier and hotter conditions in the region have increased the risk of vegetation fires, which has resulted in a large number of fast-developing large-scale fires. The high intensity of these fires is reflected in the emissions and the size of the smoke plumes being transported out to the Pacific that we have been monitoring.”

CAMS has been using its Global Fire Assimilation System (GFAS) to provide data on the distribution, daily total intensity, and corresponding emissions to the atmosphere of the observed fire activity. CAMS has also been monitoring the evolution and transport of the large smoke plumes originating from the fires.

Chile wildfire
Credit: Warko via Flickr

The CAMS monitoring of wildfire carbon emissions reveals that between January and February of this year, almost 4 megatonnes of carbon were emitted, making it the second-highest level of wildfire carbon emissions in Chile for these months in the past 20 years. The regions of Bio-Bío, La Araucanía, and Ñuble have recorded the highest emission levels in the past 20 years, with carbon emissions in January and February amounting to over 2.5 megatonnes, 1.4 megatonnes, and 0.7 megatonnes, respectively. Emissions from Bio-Bío and La Araucanía are more than double their previous record levels, set in 2017 in Bio-Bío and 2008 in La Araucanía.

The CAMS monitoring of total fire radiative power (FRP) indicates a spike in FRP between 4-6 February, well above the mean of the 2003-2022 data and corresponding to the situation on the ground. The Global ECMWF Fire Forecast map of fire danger forecast shows extreme fire danger across a large area of Chile and Argentina. Satellite observations from the NASA Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensors during the prior seven days show the fires in southern and central Chile occurring in areas with the highest fire risk.

The impact of the wildfires on the atmosphere is significant, with prevailing winds carrying a large smoke plume northwestwards from the affected area out into the Pacific Ocean, and a smaller plume being transported across central Argentina and out into the South Atlantic. The CAMS total aerosol optical depth 5-day forecast initialized on 7 February illustrates the extent of the impact.

The ongoing wildfires pose a significant threat to the environment, affected communities, and the atmosphere. Monitoring efforts by organizations like CAMS are critical in providing up-to-date information on the situation, assessing the impact of the fires, and assisting in efforts to combat and control the wildfires. As the situation continues to develop, ongoing monitoring and analysis will be essential in mitigating the impact of the wildfires on affected communities and the environment.

Geospatial Revolution: The Boom of Location-Based Technology

The geospatial sector is booming as an ever-increasing number of organizations focus on harnessing the power of geospatial data.

This rapidly expanding industry plays an integral role in today’s data-driven world, where businesses and governments alike are using location-based data to drive progress and solve problems. From mapping and surveying to satellite imagery and remote sensing, the geospatial industry is a hub of innovation, set to become even more influential in the years ahead.

GEOSPATIAL COMPANIES - DATE INCORPORATED

Between 2000 and 2010, 57 geospatial organizations were established. This figure soared to 197 from 2010 to 2020. Looking forward to 2024, the number of geospatial organizations founded is set to skyrocket.

The continued expansion of the geospatial sector isn’t just good news for the space industry, but for the world. By providing new ways to collect and analyze data, geospatial tools are helping to address environmental issues and drive efficiency in a wide range of industries. As these innovative technologies continue to evolve, the geospatial sector is set to play a vital role in shaping our understanding of the world around us.

Some of the many benefits of geospatial data include:

  • Improved decision-making: Geospatial data can provide valuable insights to help inform decisions in a variety of industries, such as urban planning, emergency management, agriculture, and logistics.
  • Increased efficiency: By using geospatial technologies, organizations can optimize their operations, reduce costs, and improve service delivery.
  • Better resource management: Geospatial data can help organizations manage their resources more effectively, whether it’s monitoring water levels, tracking wildlife populations, or mapping natural resource reserves.
  • Enhanced public safety: Geospatial technologies can be used to identify areas prone to natural disasters, assess risk, and develop emergency response plans.
  • Improved environmental management: Geospatial data can aid in environmental monitoring, mapping, and analysis, providing critical information for conservation efforts and sustainable development.

 

The Use of Geospatial Data in Agritech

AgritechThe growth of the geospatial sector also comes hand in hand with that of agritech. Agritech refers to the application of technology to agricultural processes such as planting, harvesting, and crop modification. It can involve using data, AI and robots, among other agritech technologies, to address pressing issues in the agricultural industry.

Agritech enhances every step of the farming and growing process, massively increasing agricultural yield, productivity and efficiency. In particular, satellite data has transformed agriculture by enabling farmers to optimize crop yields, make informed decisions on when and what to plant, and practice sustainable farming. It’s also used for efficient water management, crop fertilization, animal tracking, and controlling autonomous farm equipment. Investment in agritech boomed through the pandemic, exceeding $10 billion in 2021. Watch this space – this exciting sector is set to skyrocket.

 

The Use of Geospatial Data in the Russia-Ukraine War

The conflict in Ukraine has underscored the crucial role of space technologies and geospatial data, as well as the importance of international cooperation and technological development in this rapidly evolving field.

Ukrainian Flag

Satellite images have provided key intelligence in the conflict. One prominent example occurred when a group of researchers in California were analyzing data from Google Maps. They noticed what appeared to be a traffic jam near Belgorod, a Russian town near the Ukrainian border, at 3:15am local time. Soon after, they realized that it was a unit of Russian armored vehicles mobilizing toward the Ukrainian border. This sighting happened hours before Putin announced a “special military operation” against Ukraine.

“I think we were the first people to see the invasion,” Dr. Jeffrey Lewis, an expert in open source intelligence, told Motherboard. “And we saw it in a traffic app.”

The importance of space technologies in cases like this goes beyond early detection. Earth Observation (EO) data, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals, and satellite communications are all crucial tools that can save countless lives. They’re used to monitor troop movements, identify targets, and track the flow of resources across conflict zones. Additionally, the availability of broadband services through satellite communications allows for real-time communication and coordination across vast distances.

 

Geospatial Industry Map

Let’s take a deeper dive into the geospatial landscape. We’ve used our data to map the industry, giving you an insight into its incredible opportunities and the skills you need to take you there.

To date, this is a map of the global geospatial industry, highlighting which countries are joining the GEOINT revolution.

Geospatial Industry Map

As you can see, this is a global movement. Countries all across the world are fuelling the geospatial boom, building an industry that will power a better tomorrow.

Let’s take a deeper dive into the top three locations by geospatial job opportunities.

 

Fastest Growing Areas by Geospatial Job Opportunities

Fastest growing areas by geospatial job opportunitiesNew York, Washington DC and Los Angeles came out on top with the most geospatial job opportunities.

At the epicentre of progress, these states have solidified themselves as leading geospatial innovators. It seems that if you’re wondering how to get into geospatial, these locations could be your way in.

 

A Career in Geospatial Data

As the geospatial sector continues to grow, it’s creating new career paths for people with a wide range of skills. In addition to traditional careers in surveying and cartography, there is now a demand for professionals with expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and data analytics. These careers offer opportunities for people with backgrounds in fields such as computer science, engineering, and environmental science to apply their skills to real-world problems.

For those seeking to transition into the geospatial industry – you will need to build specific skills to be ahead of the curve.

Let’s take a look at the five fastest growing skills in the geospatial industry.

 

Top 5 Fastest Growing Geospatial Skills

Fastest growing geospatial skillsThese invaluable skillsets are fuelling an ever-growing list of industries, allowing skilled professionals to use their expertise for the good of humanity.

Although supply tends to outweigh demand when it comes to geospatial professionals, the continued growth of the sector is set to level these scales.

As the world becomes increasingly connected, the need for geospatial data and analysis is going to increase, creating a range of new job opportunities. The growth of the geospatial industry is expected to create a multiplier effect, generating more jobs in related fields such as software development, data analytics, and project management.

The geospatial industry is also expected to benefit from the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT is generating vast amounts of location-based data that can be used to create new services and products. Geospatial professionals who are proficient in data management, visualization, and analysis will be in high demand, as they will be needed to collect, process, and interpret this data for various applications.

The boom of the geospatial sector will be the catalyst for a long list of future world-changing organizations. If you’ve got a passion for problem solving, data analysis, environmental sustainability and technological innovation, now is the time to join the geospatial revolution.

 

Head to our Jobs Page to discover what jobs geospatial organizations are currently hiring for.

Maxar and Umbra Partner to Deliver Cutting-Edge Radar Imagery for Earth Intelligence

Remote sensing giant Maxar Technologies has partnered with satellite imagery start-up Umbra to gain exclusive access to their radar imaging constellation.

The deal will allow Maxar to integrate Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data into their Earth intelligence products and services.

The demand for SAR remote sensing is rising due to its ability to capture images at night, through cloud cover, smoke, rain, and other conditions that can impair traditional optical satellites. While Maxar has agreements with other third-party SAR providers, it partnered with Umbra because the company’s high-resolution SAR is better suited to Maxar’s high-resolution optical imagery.

David Langan, Umbra’s co-founder and CEO, said the company was “thrilled to partner with Maxar and to be chosen as their first-ever SAR dedicated access partner.”

According to Tony Frazier, the head of Maxar’s public sector Earth intelligence, “Since the start of the Ukraine crisis, we’ve seen a high demand for multi-source capabilities. And especially a demand for integrating high-resolution SAR with our optical capabilities.”

The partnership will allow Maxar to directly task Umbra’s satellites and offer combined optical-SAR products by the second quarter of 2023. Umbra, based in Santa Barbara, California, currently has five satellites in orbit and plans to launch a total of 24. Maxar operates a fleet of four high-resolution imaging satellites and is the primary commercial supplier of satellite imagery to the United States government.

Frazier said the companies are “having conversations about ways to integrate future capabilities, and we do see a lot of opportunity to look at multiple sources of data.”

According to Gabe Dominocielo, Umbra’s co-founder, and president, the deal will “energize commercial SAR utilization worldwide and support Umbra’s ambitions of building and growing a robust commercial business case.” Frazier added that intelligence agencies and military commands increasingly require multi-source intelligence to track developments and trends in different regions worldwide, and “they need the data regardless of whether it’s sunny or cloudy over a location.”

The non-exclusive agreement is expected to extend over several years, energizing the commercial SAR market and supporting Umbra’s growth ambitions. The partnership promises to deliver cutting-edge, cloud-resistant, and high-quality imagery products to customers globally, further strengthening Maxar’s position as the primary supplier of commercial satellite imagery to the US government.