The IEEE GRSS Wuhan Student Branch invited Dr. Samir Belabbes from the United Nations Satellite Centre (UNOSAT) in Switzerland to deliver an insightful lecture titled “Satellite Imagery for Emergency Response: A Deep Dive into the Collaboration Between UNOSAT and Wuhan University.”

Dr. Samir Belabbes, an Associate Programme Officer at UNOSAT, specializes in the processing and interpretation of remote sensing data for applications in environmental and biomass degradation, natural disasters, and risk assessment, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. He also served as a key lead in rapid mapping operations. UNOSAT plays a critical role in global emergency response efforts. Its Emergency Mapping Service (EMS) is a core component, dedicated to disaster response and humanitarian aid by providing timely geospatial information through remote sensing and GIS. The collaboration between UNOSAT and Wuhan University has further enhanced these capabilities by integrating advanced satellite data processing and innovative GIS methodologies. This partnership includes joint research with the State Key Laboratory of Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping, and Remote Sensing (LIESMARS), focusing on nighttime light applications. UNOSAT emphasized its commitment to strengthening its partnership with Wuhan University to better support those in need.

Key Highlights of the Event:

1. An introduction to the fundamental structure and main research areas of the United Nations Satellite Centre in Switzerland.

2. A presentation on the collaboration in satellite imagery applications, particularly in nighttime light research.

3.  A discussion on the future outlook and work plans for the partnership between UNOSAT and Wuhan University in leveraging satellite imagery for emergency response.