U.K. University Offering Space Data for Smaller Companies

(European Space Agency)

The University of Leicester in the U.K. is making available Earth observation data from a European Union space program to small and medium-sized businesses in the East Midlands, where the university is located. The university’s Space Technology Exchange Partnership will develop practical uses of data generated from the EU’s Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) initiative.

GMES offers data from monitoring and forecasting the state of the Earth’s subsystems, specifically land, marine and atmosphere information. The data help monitor the effects of climate change, including assessments of mitigation measures. GMES also provides data support in the event of emergencies and humanitarian aid needs.

G-STEP, as the university calls its program, has already helped a number of companies and organizations. One project involves providing better data on crop yields, using indicators of leaf canopy and chlorophyll content that serve as measures of crop health. In another project, local authorities in Leicester are setting up a traffic management system that includes near real-time data from satellites to monitor traffic and forecast air pollution levels.

The university says the G-STEP initiative can provide consultation and training in the use of Earth observation data to businesses. In addition, it can also put businesses and organizations in contact with with funding opportunities and arrange placements for recent graduates skilled in Earth observation data.

Read more: U.K. University Hosts Environmental Tech Training Center

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