Chinese Researchers Revolutionize Satellite Data Processing with New 4D Format and MARS Software

Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIR) have unveiled a groundbreaking Multi-Dimensional Data (MDD) format and MARS software that unifies time, space, and spectral dimensions of satellite data for the first time. Published in The Innovation and led by Professor ZHANG Lifu, this innovation processes Earth observation data 482% faster than industry-standard ENVI software while using 97% less storage—solving decades of fragmentation in environmental monitoring.

Jul 18, 2025

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Chinese Scientists Develop Tiny Sensor That Redefines Vacuum Pressure Measurement

A research team from the Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIR) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has unveiled a revolutionary microsensor that dramatically improves the accuracy and range of vacuum pressure measurement—key to applications in semiconductor manufacturing, space missions, and high-precision engineering.

Jul 13, 2025

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Satellite-Based Method Dramatically Improves Accuracy of Coal-fired Power Plant CO₂ Emissions Estimates

A study published in Environmental Science & Technology introduces a satellite-based method that significantly improves the accuracy of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission estimates from coal-fired power plants. Developed by researchers at the Aerospace Information Research Institute (AIR) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the approach enhances our ability to track greenhouse gas emissions in near real-time—crucial for global efforts to combat climate change and achieve national climate goals.

Jul 11, 2025

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New Satellite Mapping Reveals Vast Undetected Trees in Tropics, Highlighting Overlooked Losses

A recent study published in Nature Communications unveils that 17.31% of tropical tree cover—equivalent to 395.9 million hectares (Mha)—has been consistently overlooked by global forest monitoring systems. Using high-resolution satellite imagery (<5m) and an advanced automated algorithm, an international research team mapped previously undetected tree cover (PUTC) across pan-tropical regions from 2015–2022. Their findings highlight significant net losses and critical blind spots in current forest conservation efforts.

Jul 07, 2025

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AI-Powered Radar Technique Reconstructs Cities in 3D with Greater Detail and Accuracy

A team of Chinese researchers has developed a powerful new method to create highly detailed 3D models of cities using radar data, helping overcome long-standing challenges in urban mapping. By combining artificial intelligence (AI) with building geometry, the new technique—called Geo-SETRA—can produce clearer, more complete images of urban landscapes, potentially transforming how cities are monitored, planned, and protected.

Jul 07, 2025

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