Satellite Remote Sensing of Soil Moisture

Abstract

Hydrologic, weather, and climate modeling can be improved through observation of the current status of soil moisture. Better predictions from these models will lead to improved forecasts of floods and other phenomena. Soil moisture products are now feasible using a new generation of microwave remote-sensing satellites. The quality of these products will continue to improve as new sensors are launched over this decade. Microwave sensors are of particular value because they respond to the amount of moisture in the soil. There are several methods that have been shown to be capable of providing soil moisture information. Each has unique capabilities (i.e. temporal coverage, spatial resolution, etc.) that must be matched with specific types of applications. In the past, options have been limited by available satellite systems. Investigators have demonstrated the potential of these data in hydrologic studies using ground and aircraft systems. However, efforts to use the less than optimal available satellite systems have had very limited success. In recent years and continuing over the coming decade, a wide range of new and significantly improved satellites will be launched that will offer new opportunities.