The New Space Jam: Delivering 51 Years of Satellite Data to America's Producers

As of May 2022, there were 5,465 satellites orbiting earth, with 3,433 of those under U.S. ownership. Both NASA and Congress are looking to tap into those U.S. satellites to help producers make more informed crop decisions.

Here’s what we know about their space plans.

NASA Acres

NASA has collected satellite data since the first Landsat satellite launch in 1972. With years of information collected, NASA announced the launch of NASA Acres in March, which the agency says will unite it with ag leaders from public and private sectors to bring data to farmers. 

“Farmers and ranchers are looking for information to help them make all sorts of decisions, from water use to what crops to plant and when," said Karen St. Germain, director of NASA’s Earth Science Division. "NASA is always looking for new ways to help people find and use science to inform their decisions, so we’re very excited about this new consortium to help America’s farmers use NASA Earth science data.”  

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In the initial phases of the program, NASA plans to combine data with machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) to supplement growers’ production tool in areas such as:

•    Fertilizer application and irrigation timing
•    Early pest and disease detection
•    Soil health monitoring

Twelve U.S. universities will lead the data collection efforts. The data will then be delivered to the data leads at the University of Maryland, who will then transfer the information to industry stakeholders for farmers’ benefit.

While these universities are busy collecting data, legislative officials are working to make more data available to producers, beyond NASA’s numbers.

Satellite Noise on The Hill

Reps. Bob Latta (R-OH) and Robin Kelly (D-IL) introduced the Precision Ag Satellite Connectivity Act in March to reassess U.S. satellite capabilities to see if current satellites in orbit could better assist farmers. The act passed in the House last week with a 409 to 11 vote. 

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“I’m committed to ensuring our farmers have tools at their disposal to increase productivity and produce higher yields while minimizing operating costs,” Latta said in a press release. “With the House advancing my bill today, farmers in Ohio and across America are one step closer to incorporating new technology that not only benefits their operation, but also bolsters the food supply chain that so many Americans rely upon to feed their families.” 

If made law, the bill would require the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to review satellite service rules to see if any changes could be made to promote precision ag technology.