Flying in tandem with the Biomass satellite – aircraft radar measurements over Gabon's rainforests

Polarimetric F-SAR radar image acquired in the P-band

In November 2025, the DLR Microwaves and Radar Institute acquired dedicated images of the tropical rainforests in Gabon. Researchers are using the data from the GABONX flight campaign to compare them with synchronously acquired data from ESA's new Biomass Earth observation satellite - so that its radar system can be correctly calibrated and deliver highly accurate data in future. The area shown, Pongara, is part of an extensive river delta and consists mainly of very tall mangrove and swamp forests. Owing to the richness of its fauna, the region is designated as a national park.

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