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When to harvest is a critical decision for winemakers. Harvesting too early or too late can greatly impact the taste of the wine. However, the climate crisis has been disrupting traditional harvest times and methods. In France, a country known for its wine, the harvest date for the Châteauneuf-de-Pape appellation has moved up by almost three weeks since 1960 due to global warming. This change in timing has led to new challenges, such as the appearance of plant diseases, changing rain patterns, and vine dehydration.

To adapt to these changes, winemakers are turning to satellite technology for precise data on the progress and health of their vines. Startups like Ticinum Aerospace and TerraNIS are using satellite technology to help vintners harvest the right grapes at the right time. This data-driven approach allows the wine industry to make decisions based on accurate information, ensuring the best quality grapes for winemaking.

Satellite technology has the potential to revolutionize agriculture as a whole. As global warming and extreme weather disrupt food production, satellite sensors can provide farmers with valuable data on crop disease, pest infestations, nutrient needs, water stress, ideal harvest time, and quality evaluation. By combining this data with GPS-driven farm machinery, farmers can better manage their fields and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Additionally, this technology has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the agriculture sector by 13%.

The market for satellite data in agriculture is expected to nearly double by 2030, reaching billion. The benefits include the prevention of crop loss, reduced water use, and increased yield potential. Satellites from various organizations, such as NASA, the European Space Agency, and private companies like Planet, provide valuable images of the Earth’s surface. By analyzing the reflected wavelengths, scientists can determine vegetation density, soil water content, and plant nutrient levels. This data can then be used to make informed decisions about crop management, such as applying fertilizer only where it’s needed.

Governments and policymakers are recognizing the potential of satellite technology in agriculture. The European Union is changing its Common Agricultural Policy to incorporate satellite monitoring for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fertilizer use. In the US, the Precision Agriculture Satellite Connectivity Act promotes the use of satellite data in farming practices.

Overall, satellite technology is proving to be a valuable tool for winemakers and farmers alike. By harnessing the power of satellite data, we can adapt to the challenges of climate change, protect the food supply, and reduce our environmental impact.

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