In order to inform users about the quality of Earth observation data, these data need to be independently validated, typically with ground-based reference measurements. Only after validation and uncertainty quantification can data products be used with confidence. However, the validation process needs to take into account the satellite observation footprint, observation times and angles, and definition of the measured quantities, among others, in order to make ground and satellite data comparable.

The objective of GFZ in the IDEAS-QA4EO project is to explore new technologies for validation tasks. Primary focus is on temporally dynamic vegetated surfaces like forests and agricultural areas. In particular LiDAR and hyperspectral sensors carried by Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), and permanent monitoring sensors are deployed to capture these dynamics.