Hybrid hyperspectral-SAR remote sensing for agriculture application

Abstract

Remote sensing technology is a key component of modern agriculture, enabling the monitoring of crop growth and soil ecological conditions, which is crucial for reducing carbon emissions associated with global warming. Microwave remote sensing can penetrate forest canopies and even reach the soil, while hyperspectral optical technology provides detailed molecular information for material analysis. In this joint project, China and Brazil, through two research groups based at highly qualified institutions-University of Campinas and Zhejiang University-led by Professors Hugo E. H. Figueroa and Sailing He, are combining their respective strengths and research expertise in optics and microwaves. For the first time, these two technologies will be integrated to develop a drone-based hybrid spectral-microwave imaging system for agricultural applications, achieving multi-dimensional remote sensing of the soil. On the optical side, a hyperspectral imaging system that covers the spectrum from infrared to visible light will be developed to obtain detailed spectral information about soil and crops. On the microwave side, the existing multi-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) system will be enhanced to capture electromagnetic data at various resolutions and depths. This system will then be integrated with spectral imaging for agricultural applications. The fusion of microwave remote sensing and hyperspectral imaging technology will produce high-resolution, wide-field multi-dimensional image data that combines hyperspectral and microwave information. This data will be used for applications such as crop growth analysis, disease and pest monitoring, and the estimation of soil and crop biocarbon content. Ultimately, this project will provide a scientific basis for promoting sustainable agriculture in response to climate change. (AU)