Field test campaign in the Azores

During this field campaign on Terceira Island in the Azores, we focused on measuring the spectral signatures of grass across diverse pastures, spanning different altitudes and environmental conditions.

Our objective was to investigate how these spectral patterns differ between grass samples with and without spores of Pithomyces chartarum, a fungus associated with livestock health risks. To capture this variability, we combined multiple data sources including satellite imagery, drone-based observations, and in-situ measurements using a spectroradiometer. This multi-scale approach allowed us to link ground truth data with remote sensing signals more effectively.

The collected dataset provides a foundation for analyzing how grass quality and nutrient composition influence spore production. By leveraging existing vegetation indices, and potentially developing new ones tailored to our observations, we aim to improve the detection and monitoring of these conditions from remote sensing platforms.

You can read the full paper here.