Hydrology from Space Programme
The Hydrology from Space programme brings together scientists, researchers, students, and operational agencies working on the observation and monitoring of Earth’s water resources using satellite remote sensing and Earth observation technologies. The programme is strongly connected with international initiatives related to hydrology, climate studies, and the NASA–CNES SWOT (Surface Water and Ocean Topography) mission.
The programme promotes collaboration between universities, research institutions, space agencies, and environmental organizations to advance the understanding of the global water cycle and improve water resource management. It also encourages scientific exchange, technical training, and capacity building, especially for students and early-career researchers.
Objectives
The Hydrology from Space programme focuses on the latest scientific advances, satellite missions, and innovative methodologies used to study freshwater systems, climate interactions, and hydrological processes at regional and global scales.
The programme welcomes research and applications related to:
- River and lake monitoring
- Wetlands and floodplains
- Floods and droughts
- Water resource management
- Climate change impacts on hydrology
- Soil moisture and evapotranspiration
- Hydrological modeling and data assimilation
- Remote sensing applications in hydrology
- Ocean and coastal observations
Special emphasis is placed on the use of satellite missions such as SWOT and the European Copernicus programme to improve the monitoring of surface water dynamics and climate-related hydrological changes.
A key component of the programme is the promotion of international scientific collaboration and the training of students and young scientists through presentations, workshops, technical sessions, and knowledge-sharing activities. The programme also supports discussions between research institutions and operational agencies on the future applications of satellite hydrology for sustainable development, climate resilience, and disaster risk reduction.
