The UK is set to make history with the launch of Biomass, the first satellite in the world capable of measuring the condition of Earth’s forests in 3D from space—a breakthrough mission designed to transform our understanding of forests’ role in fighting climate change.
Developed by British academics and engineers, led by Professor Shaun Quegan of the University of Sheffield, and built at Airbus Defence and Space in Stevenage, Biomass will use pioneering radar technology to peer through the dense canopies of the world’s most remote and vital forests. The satellite is scheduled to launch on 29 April from Europe’s spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana, marking the culmination of nearly two decades of research and development
Unlike previous satellites, Biomass uses a P-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR) with a 12-metre-wide reflector, allowing it to penetrate clouds and thick vegetation to measure the woody matter—trunks, branches, and stems—where most forest carbon is stored. This technology enables the satellite to generate detailed 3D maps of forest structure and estimate above-ground carbon stocks, especially in tropical regions where field data is scarce.
Björn Rommen, Biomass Mission Scientist at the European Space Agency (ESA), explained:
“The role of forests in the global carbon cycle is not fully understood… By improving our understanding of these processes, we can better manage forests and quantify their role in a changing climate.”
Forests cover nearly 30% of Earth’s land area and act as crucial carbon sinks, absorbing about a third of the CO2 released from fossil fuels each year. However, changes in land use—deforestation, logging, and burning—are causing significant fluctuations in carbon stocks, particularly in tropical countries like Brazil, Indonesia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Current data on forest carbon is limited, making it difficult for scientists and policymakers to track how much carbon is being stored or released.
Dr Paul Bate, CEO of the UK Space Agency, emphasised the mission’s significance:
“The Biomass satellite represents a major leap forward in our ability to understand Earth’s carbon cycle. By mapping the world’s forests from space in unprecedented detail, it will provide critical insights into how our planet is responding to climate change—helping scientists, policymakers, and conservationists take informed action.”
Economic and Scientific Impact
The mission has already supported around 250 highly skilled jobs in the UK and is seen as a testament to the country’s industrial and academic expertise in space technology. With more than 50 companies across 20 nations involved, Biomass is expected to attract further investment and drive innovation in the UK’s £18.9 billion space sector
Kata Escott, Managing Director of Airbus Defence and Space in the UK, said:
“Biomass is a groundbreaking mission that will advance our understanding of how carbon is stored in the world’s forests—delivering crucial data in the fight against climate change.”
During its five-year mission, Biomass will create a 3D map of tropical forests within 17 months, followed by updated maps every nine months. This data will not only help refine global carbon budgets but also inform strategies to achieve net-zero emissions and protect biodiversity.
