Earth Observation from Space: UFAZ Hosts Next Research Seminar on Sustainable Development

On May 13th, UFAZ held a very engaging research seminar titled "From Space to Sustainability: Insights from SAR and Optical Remote Sensing on Water, Land, and Climate Dynamics", presented by Dr. Bahruz Ahadov, a respected expert in Remote Sensing and InSAR technologies. Dr. Ahadov, a graduate of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences and a former postdoctoral researcher at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, gave an informative talk on how satellite-based Earth observation can help us better understand today’s environmental and geoscientific issues.

The seminar took a deep look at how advanced satellite technologies - especially Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and optical imaging - are used to study and manage the Earth's constantly changing systems. Dr. Ahadov explained how these tools connect space science with sustainability and how they are becoming increasingly useful in both research and practical problem-solving.

Dr. Ahadov showed how InSAR data can be used to monitor tectonic activity, such as earthquakes and volcanic changes. This kind of analysis helps scientists better understand ground movement, assess risks, and create early warning systems to protect communities. He also explained how SAR and optical satellite images are used to monitor freshwater sources, track changes in water quality, and study hydrological systems that are affected by climate change.

The seminar also included examples of how satellite data is used to observe changes in land surfaces. These included deforestation, urban growth, shifts in agriculture, and desertification - showing how both natural events and human activity change the landscape. Dr. Ahadov also spoke about how Earth observation supports climate models, helps track greenhouse gas effects, and contributes to achieving long-term sustainability goals.

Overall, this seminar was a great learning experience for students, researchers, and professionals interested in geoscience, climate change, and the many ways space technologies can be used to solve real-world environmental problems.