Satellite data revolutionizes crop growth management and water resource allocation.
The researchers used satellite data to map soil moisture levels, which are crucial for crop growth and water resource management. By downscaling satellite observations, they were able to estimate root water uptake stress and carrying capacity at a field scale. The method that adjusted for daily soil sensitivity showed the best fit with on-site measurements, with correlation coefficients up to 0.77. The maps created revealed wet and dry areas as expected, with grasslands on peat having higher soil moisture content than sandy soils. The researchers also developed a Soil-Moisture-Stress indication diagram to assess soil status for different soil types.