Mangroves are one of Earth's most valuable, and often hidden, worlds. So how do you study a remote forest that's nearly impossible to reach on foot?
Space ecologist and
#NatGeoExplorer Lola Fatoyinbo (dr.lolaf) uses satellite technology to observe mangrove ecosystems from space! Using remote sensing technologies, like LiDAR (light detection and ranging) technology, Fatoyinbo gathers crucial information about secluded locations to document mangrove height, distribution of forest cover and even monitor the amount of carbon they absorb and store. “I realized that I could use this data to explore every corner of our planet," she says, "especially those areas that were understudied or inaccessible.”
Link in bio to explore more of Fatayinbo's work.
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Photos by Tom Saater