A groundbreaking new satellite, developed by the European Space Agency (ESA), is set to transform how scientists monitor and understand Earth’s forests. Known as the Biomass satellite, it is equipped with a powerful 12-meter radar antenna capable of seeing through clouds and dense forest canopies-something previous satellites could not achieve. This technology will allow researchers to measure the volume of woody material in forests, providing a direct estimate of how much carbon is stored in trees, which is vital for understanding the planet’s carbon cycle and the fight against climate change.

Traditionally, measuring forest biomass has been a massive challenge. Scientists have relied on ground-based methods, such as measuring individual trees and extrapolating data for vast regions-a process described as a “huge challenge” due to the sheer scale involved. The Biomass satellite will overcome these limitations by using a P-band synthetic aperture radar, which penetrates deep into forests, capturing data on trunks and branches rather than just leaves and twigs. This approach is similar to a CT scan, collecting cross-sectional images to build a comprehensive 3D map of forest structure and carbon content.

The satellite’s ability to see through persistent cloud cover is especially important for monitoring tropical forests, where clouds often obscure traditional optical satellite imagery. With this new radar technology, scientists will be able to consistently monitor changes in forest biomass year after year, regardless of weather conditions. This will not only improve estimates of carbon storage but also help track deforestation and habitat loss, providing crucial information for climate models and international conservation efforts.

After launch, the Biomass satellite will begin producing detailed maps within six months, with a mission expected to last five years. These maps will reveal both the carbon stored in forests and the losses from deforestation, supporting global initiatives to halt forest loss and better manage Earth’s vital carbon sinks.