Synergistic Multi-SAR Insights into Forests

SupSAR-ForestSynSAR project

The SUPSAR-ForestSynSAR, project, funded by the European Space Agency (ESA), aims to perform a pre-launch analysis of synergistic multi-SAR approaches for forest monitoring. A key objective is to provide orbit phasing recommendations for the coordinated use of Sentinel-1 Next Generation and ROSE-L missions. These recommendations will optimize temporal and spatial observation strategies to improve the retrieval of critical forest parameters, particularly forest height and above-ground biomass. The project will develop advanced deep learning algorithms tailored for C- and L-band SAR data, construct benchmark datasets across a range of forest ecosystems, and generate actionable insights to support ESA’s future mission planning.

The project is structured around several key objectives:

1. Consolidate a scientific foundation for advanced algorithms and multi-mission synergies in SAR data for forest characterization
   The project will develop and validate advanced algorithms that use the unique capabilities of multi-frequency SAR data for forest characterization and dynamics. This effort also aims to strengthen a scientific foundation that transcends individual mission objectives, with a focus on synergistic innovations.
2. Provide recommendations for Sentinel missions as an integrated 'System of Systems'
   Through detailed analysis of acquisition timing and orbit configurations, the project will deliver practical recommendations for coordinating Sentinel-1 Next Generation and ROSE-L missions to maximize synergy and retrieval performance for forest monitoring.
3. Build expertise within Europe's scientific and industrial sectors for new SAR instrument applications
   The project will strengthen capacity through hands-on workshops, webinars, and open-access tools to prepare the next generation of SAR remote sensing professionals.
4. Develop innovative tools, products, and applications to enable market readiness and leadership
   The aim is to create automated processing pipelines and user-customizable toolkits to generate high-quality forest monitoring products, enabling European companies to lead in operational multi-SAR applications.
5. Prepare stakeholders for swift adoption and operational use of new SAR data products
   A stakeholder network will be activated and expanded via case studies, documentation, and training support to ensure rapid integration of project outputs into real-world forest management and Earth observation services.

The project is funded by the European Space Agency (ESA) and was kicked off in September 2025.

🔗 Interested in more?

For a complementary perspective, explore our related research project: SentinelToHeight 

The Project Lead