Gregory P. Asner, Carnegie Institution
Work at the interface of biogeochemistry, eco-physiology and physics has fostered a new era in airborne remote sensing for studies of ecosystem function and physiology. Airborne imaging spectroscopy (or hyperspectral imaging) technology has also improved to a level that matches our scientific know-how for applying measurements of plant biochemical, physiological, and structural properties in real-world ecological studies. As a result, remote sensing is advancing from a largely scientific area to the conservation, management and resource policy development arenas. This presentation focuses on the recent progress in ecological and remote sensing science, and how this has opened up new research opportunities in regional studies.