Grassland plants can absorb solar radiation, depending on its wavelength, and use it for photosynthesis; transmit it, meaning let it pass through their leaves; or reflect it. Plants exhibit very specific reflection properties, particularly in the visible and near-infrared ranges. These reflection properties can be measured with suitable sensors, providing new and profound insights into the biophysical processes of plant growth. Using appropriate methods, parameters such as nutritional status, vitality, drought tolerance, biomass growth, and other important quality parameters can be calculated from the data.
The captured wavelength ranges are selected to cover the spectral channels of the Sentinel-2 satellites with the camera. This allows results from precise scientific experiments to be transferred to regional and national levels using satellite data. The sensor will be used in both existing and future experimental facilities and will primarily enhance the field of non-destructive observations.
Reflectance data at varying spatial resolutions form the basis for modern grassland management and are indispensable in digitalization concepts for crop production. Further fundamental research on this topic is being conducted in the "SatGrass" project at the HBLFA .
