Biomass Mission

ESA’s Biomass Mission Launch Imminent: The European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing to launch the Biomass satellite. The launch is expected in 2025.

Purpose: Carbon Cycle Understanding: The mission aims to improve our understanding of the carbon cycle by providing more accurate forest biomass measurements.

Detailed 3D Forest Mapping: Biomass will create detailed 3D maps of dense and remote tropical forests.

Vega C Rocket Launch: The satellite will be launched aboard the Vega C rocket from French Guiana.

Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO): It will be placed in a sun-synchronous orbit at approximately 666 km altitude.

P-Band Radar Technology: The mission utilizes a long-wavelength P-band radar.

Penetrates Forest Canopy: The P-band radar can penetrate deep into the forest canopy.

Collects Information on Forest Components: It gathers data on tree trunks, branches, and stems, where the majority of carbon is stored.

Provides Forest Height and Biomass Data: Biomass will supply experts with new data on forest height and above-ground forest biomass from space.

Carbon Cycle & Forest Study: Scientists will use this information to study forest health, changes, and the role of forests in the carbon cycle.

Mission Duration: The Biomass mission is planned to last for five years.