AGRIBUSINESS Elders has joined with Australia’s leading space research centre to explore the application of satellite-enabled earth observation technologies in agriculture. The SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on transforming agricultural practices by addressing challenges in emissions monitoring, pest management, and crop yield enhancement. The partners said the agreement marks a significant step towards integrating space technology into Australian agriculture for improved environmental and operational outcomes. Under the MOU, both SmartSat and Elders have committed to using satellite-enabled earth observation technologies to address key challenges in Australian agriculture. The collaboration will focus on several critical areas, with a major goal of utilising satellite technology to monitor and report emissions from Elders’ Killara cattle feedlot, contributing to improved environmental management.
This collaboration will involve the development of new technologies and the implementation of existing ones. The development of new technologies will focus on improving the precision of weed, pest, and disease detection and management. The implementation of existing technologies will focus on optimizing the use of existing resources and infrastructure.
This collaboration is a testament to the commitment of both organizations to leveraging technology for the precision agriculture revolution. The partnership will focus on developing and deploying innovative solutions that address key challenges faced by Australian farmers, such as drought, soil erosion, and pest management. The SmartSat CRC is a national research and development organization dedicated to advancing satellite technologies for various sectors, including agriculture.
The SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre brings together over 135 participating organisations, including national and international partners, with more than 400 researchers. The CRC has a portfolio of more than 150 research and development projects across advanced communication, connectivity and IoT technologies, advanced satellite systems, sensors and intelligence, and next generation earth observation data services, SmartSat continues to contribute to building Australia’s space R&D capability. The SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre’s activities are funded by the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science and Resources through the Cooperative Research Centres Program. Find out more at www.smartsatcrc.com.