S10 AF Nov Dec 2021 RIELA_Layout 1 08/11/2021 07:51 Page 34
TECHNOLOGY
Satellite data providers ConstellR and ScanWorld have announced a partnership to combine their earth observation expertise that will enable a wide range of sustainable agricultural applications.
IoT and smart farming becoming the new normal in agriculture
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Smart farming incorporates information and communication technologies into machinery, equipment and sensors used in agricultural production systems.
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N THE NEXT few decades, the agricultural industry is set to become more important than ever before as it will need to meet the demands of a growing population. That’s why farmers and agribusinesses are turning to the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart farming technologies for improved analytics and greater production capabilities. Satellite data improves yields Emerging satellite data providers ConstellR and ScanWorld have announced a partnership to combine their earth observation expertise that will enable a wide range of sustainable agricultural applications. ScanWorld leverages hyperspectral imaging to collect data from
Using surface temperature as data, ConstelIR uses evapotranspiration as a fundamental measure of crop water need for irrigation and yield monitoring. 34 African Farming - November/December 2021
across the electromagnetic spectrum to detect small changes in plan physiology. This allows for the measuring of proteins and identification of diseases to support agriculture and forestry management. ConstellR is a pioneer of thermal infrared imagery for agriculture, crop health monitoring and sustainable resource management. Using surface temperature as data, the company uses evapotranspiration as a fundamental measure of crop water need for irrigation and yield monitoring. The MoU between the two companies will include the harmonisation and interoperability of data products, the development of joint data products and services, as well as the potential for entering into joint commercial products. “We both benefit from a world-class techno-scientific background,” said Guerric de Crombrugghe, general manager at ScanWorld. “This drives us towards high-quality products, which is a key requirement when it comes to delivering operational services. This is crucial in agriculture – the harvest depends on it – but in other sectors too. Combined with affordability, this is a real game-changer.”
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