REAL-TIME AIRBORNE AGRICULTURAL MONITORING

In 1992 growers of high-value crops in central Wisconsin expressed an interest in using real-time remote sensing data for detecting crop stress. In response to this request, the Space Remote Sensing Center built a system based on work carried out by the USDA, ARS in Weslaco, Texas. This new system included a modification from analog to digital cameras that provided a means of overcoming previous barriers that inhibited real-time information delivery. These barriers include automated band to band registration, data calibration, and automated identification and retrieval of desired data frames. During the 1992 growing season weekly airborne acquisitions were attempted with 24-48-hr information delivery to the growers. Digital images were acquired for high value crops such as potatoes, sweet corn, cranberries, and peas. The system enabled detection of stresses such as freeze damage, irrigation problems, and Colorado potato beetle infestations. Experience gained during 1992 guided modification to the system to prepare for the 1993 growing season. This overall effort is helping prepare the market and technology for a real-time agriculture monitoring satellite.