Understanding what is happening on the ground is essential when preparing for and responding to natural disasters.
However, monitoring large geographical areas, identifying potential risks and predicting how an event may evolve can be challenging using conventional observation methods alone.
Earth Observation (EO) offers new opportunities by providing valuable information about the Earth's surface, atmosphere and environmental conditions through satellite-based technologies.
UNICORN builds on these capabilities, exploiting data from the European Union's Copernicus programme, the EU's Earth Observation component of its Space Programme.
Copernicus provides a wealth of satellite and environmental information that can be combined with other sources of data to develop advanced applications for disaster risk management.
Within UNICORN, different technologies and data sources are integrated to transform raw information into practical insights.
How does this work?
- Satellite data: provide information about land cover, soil moisture, burned areas and environmental changes.
- Weather forecasting: contributes to the assessment of meteorological conditions and potential hazards.
- Artificial Intelligence: supports the analysis of large datasets, helping identify patterns and improve detection and forecasting capabilities.
- Numerical modelling: simulates natural processes, such as flood propagation and lava flows, to support risk assessment.
- Ground-based observations: complement satellite information with measurements collected through monitoring stations and sensors.
By combining these different sources, UNICORN develops applications capable of providing more precise, timely and actionable information.
For example, satellite observations and weather forecasts can be integrated to improve flood prediction. AI-based algorithms can support wildfire detection and the identification of burned areas, while satellite monitoring and numerical simulations can help assess the potential evolution of volcanic lava flows.
The ultimate goal is not simply to collect more data, but to make information useful for those who need to take action.
By translating Earth Observation into operational knowledge, UNICORN aims to support public authorities, emergency services, industries and businesses in strengthening their preparedness and resilience.
Better data. Better insights. Better-informed decisions.
Discover UNICORN's approach: https://unicorn-project.com/en/about/
