Our Scans · (ZY.2.09) Spatial Science · Weekly Summary

• [New] China will pursue science-first and commerce-first projects to generate military-relevant data and leverage (hydrographic surveys, remote sensing, telecommunications footholds, research partnerships) that remain formally deniable as they expand operational awareness and footholds. Policy Options
• [New] The EU-Mercosur agreement will protect 350 European GIs, banning imitations and the use of misleading terms, symbols, flags, or images in spirits. CNS Media.
• [New] Both national security and the US economy are at risk from cyberattacks that try to interfere with and impair US satellite communications, remote sensing, and imaging capabilities. Forbes
• [New] Within the BRICS framework, China will continue advancing the development of the BRICS Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation to enhance disaster emergency data sharing. chinadailyhk
• [New] IRIDE is a pioneering Earth observation program and will use a range of remote sensing instruments and technologies, from microwave radar imaging to optical sensors operating across various spatial resolutions and frequency bands. Thales Alenia Space
• By 2025, Farmonaut's remote sensing technology is projected to monitor over 1 million acres of farmland in Miami alone. Farmonaut
• Last year, the NOAA granted Satellogic a remote sensing license, helping secure Satellogic's strategy to capitalize on high-value opportunities in the U.S., specifically as it relates to U.S. government contracts. Unlimited Hangout
• MakeSense Technology, in partnership with GIS Navigator, will use Earth observation data to create safe walking routes for blind and visually impaired people, making spontaneous travel easier. GOV.UK
• WWF, the University of Strathclyde and the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) have teamed up for the pioneering project, which will involve comparing light patterns, combined with satellite and remote sensing data, to better understand where populations are and how they are changing over time. Kent Online
• Global Biodiversity Observation Networks: Integrating remote sensing (LiDAR, SAR) with community science databases will refine species distribution modeling accuracy. Envirotech Online
• In that sense, the loss and underperformance of Earth Observation likely stems from a general decline in mentions regarding the space for sustainability nexus, as well as the potential of remote sensing for Security & Defence not being fully embraced. ESPI
• The large amounts of remote sensing information collected via Earth observation missions constitutes an unprecedented opportunity to scale up forest dieback assessment and surveillance over large areas. phys.org
• By 2025, the convergence of AI and remote sensing with regulatory frameworks like the European Union Deforestation Regulation is revolutionizing how agribusinesses demonstrate sustainability, monitor deforestation, and manage environmental risks. Farmonaut
• The Commission directs the USDA and EPA to prioritize research and programs to help growers adopt precision agricultural techniques, including remote sensing and precision application technologies that will help growers further reduce pesticide usage. No-Till Farmer
• Technological advancements in 2025 - such as remote sensing, IoT devices, drones, and artificial intelligence - are empowering companies to stay ahead in compliance, reduce risks, and ensure sustainable operations. Farmonaut
• China plans a 300-satellite constellation by 2030 in very low Earth orbit to enable global 15-minute revisit for remote sensing data spaceinsider. TS2 Space
• Enhanced Earth Observation Constellations: On the remote-sensing side, constellations will use AI onboard to identify features of interest (e.g., only sending images that contain certain events). TS2 Space
• Over 80% of agribusinesses will use AI-powered remote sensing for EUDR compliance by 2025. Farmonaut
• Malaysia has officially launched the development of its national Remote Sensing Satellite project, expected to be completed within the next two to three years. Southeast Asia Space Monitor by AzurX
• DARPA's DRIFT program showcases the potential of SAR satellite constellations and analysis algorithms in advancing remote sensing capabilities. International Defense Security & Technology
• By 2025, precision agriculture GIS is projected to increase crop yields by up to 20% while reducing water usage by 30%. Farmonaut

Last updated: 13 October 2025