Forewarned is forearmed. With this motto, Argentina has embarked on a mission to launch two Earth observation satellites so that it is alerted against environmental threats.
Named Saocom 1 and 2, the satellites are supposed to improve the management of emergencies such as forest fires, droughts and floods. While monitoring the state of glaciers and coastal areas, they would at the same time provide scientists with vital information that can help raise agricultural productivity."The information received through satellites will help governments at the regional as well as provincial levels," reveals Alberto Giraldez, senior project researcher. The satellites -- to be launched from 2004 onwards -- are being financed by Argentina's space agency, National Commission of Space Activities (ncsa), which is using a us $32 million government allocation.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.