SmartSat & Elders unite to boost agriculture with satellites

SmartSat Cooperative Research Centre (SmartSat), Australia's leading space research organisation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Elders, a prominent Australian agribusiness, to explore the application of satellite-enabled earth observation technologies in agriculture.

The collaboration aims to address critical challenges in Australian agriculture, including emissions monitoring, pest management, and crop yield enhancement. Both organisations intend to leverage satellite technology to improve environmental and operational outcomes within the sector.

Under the terms of the MOU, SmartSat and Elders will focus on using satellite-enabled earth observation technologies to tackle several key agricultural issues. One primary objective is to monitor and report emissions from Elders' Killara feedlot, which is expected to contribute significantly to improved environmental management practices. In addition, the two entities will work together to apply these technologies to enhance the management of weeds, pests, and diseases in Australian grain cropping systems, thereby improving agricultural efficiency.

Another significant priority is the utilisation of satellite data to develop innovative techniques aimed at increasing both the quality and quantity of yields in the Australian viticulture industry. This initiative is anticipated to benefit grape growers and winemakers throughout the country by boosting productivity and product quality.

Professor Andy Koronios, CEO of SmartSat CRC, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "We are delighted to be partnering with Australia's premier agricultural and rural services company to leverage the huge opportunity that space technologies offer to enhance food production and protect our environment. This partnership with Elders underscores the importance of earth observation technology in addressing some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture. By combining space-based data with on-the-ground expertise, we can enhance environmental monitoring and sustainable agricultural & farming practices across Australia."

Mark Allison, Managing Director and CEO of Elders, also commented on the significance of the collaboration. "Elders is committed to creating sustainable solutions for our customers and communities. Being at the forefront of agricultural innovation allows Elders to continue providing future-focused solutions for our clients, ensuring their businesses remain resilient and profitable in our fast-changing world. To this end, we are delighted to be collaborating with SmartSat CRC to explore satellite-enabled earth observation technologies, for the benefit of Australian farmers and the wider sector."

SmartSat CRC brings together over 135 participating organisations, including national and international partners, with more than 400 researchers. The centre has a diverse portfolio of over 150 research and development projects across various domains such as advanced communication, connectivity and IoT technologies, advanced satellite systems, sensors and intelligence, and next-generation earth observation data services. The collaboration with Elders is expected to be a significant addition to their efforts to build Australia's space R&D capability.

Elders, which has been integral to the Australian agricultural sector for 185 years, offers a vast network across the country, providing links to markets, specialised advice, and a broad range of products and services. These include farm supplies, agronomy, livestock, wool, grain, finance, insurance, and real estate.

The company's commitment to innovation and sustainability underpins its collaboration with SmartSat and aligns with its long-term vision for supporting rural and regional communities.