Space-age agronomy on show at the World Potato Congress, satellite technology developed during the Cold War, is set to deliver state-of-the-art crop monitoring systems to help growers improve agronomy and drive up profits.
Although the technology dates back several decades, its capabilities for remote sensing of crops are only now being realized, thanks to relatively recent developments in information technology. Data can also be used retrospectively to evaluate crop performance, helping to pinpoint areas for improvement in future seasons. Cambridge University Farm is working with Earth Analytics Group to develop the technology in the UK and further afield.
World Potato Congress takes place every three years. The 2012 Edinburgh event will be held May 27-30.
Visit www.potatocongress.org.