Harnessing the Power of NASA’s Technology to Detect Alien Species
When NASA isn’t spending its time exploring the depths of outer space, its lending its technology for the ambitious BioSCape project, which seeks to detect patterns of biodiversity and ecosystem health in the fynbos biome.
The project makes use of NASA’s cutting-edge hyperspectral sensors, which include AVIRIS-NG, HYTES and PRISM. These sensors cover hundreds of bands across the electromagnetic spectrum and will be augmented by structural sensors such as LVIS to measure the 3D shape of the vegetation.
The incredible diversity of the fynbos makes for an excellent test case and if there are any environment-specific spectral signatures, these instruments should be able to detect them. There are 16 ground and water-based projects measuring multiple biodiversity and environmental parameters. NASA’s jets, which have been fitted with the sensors onboard, are currently surveying the fynbos and surrounding marine areas.
Many of these projects are on CapeNature reserves, which include Anysberg, Cederberg, De Hoop, Gamkaberg, Gamkaskloof, Groenefontein, Grootwinterhoek, Grootvadersbos, Limietberg, Hottentots-Holland, Kammanassie, Keurbooms, Kogelberg, Outeniqua, and Swartberg.
One of the key patterns that we hope to detect is invasive alien plants, which form a major threat to the fynbos and a well-functioning ecosystem. The lower spectral resolution technology currently in use has indicated that it is possible to discover invasive species and the enhanced spectral abilities of the new sensors is likely to provide the nuance that is needed for detecting and mapping scattered populations of invasive alien trees.
Another project that CapeNature is involved with is BioSoundSCape, which is estimating ground diversity by recoding the acoustic diversity of animals that make sounds with programmable remote recording devices (AudioMoths). Once NASA’s new sensors have been tested, they will be deployed on satellites (around 2028), which provides the opportunity for repeated automated measures and thus the ability to monitor certain aspects of the state of fynbos over time.
These large-scale and complex projects are driven and supported by a host of researchers and technical staff from across the world with excellent representation of South African universities, institutes, and agencies.
Many CapeNature staff have been very supportive and actively involved in assisting with the ground data collection, as has an incredible array of volunteers to make this logistical challenge a reality.
What’s left is the mammoth task of analysis and interpretation of these vast data sets. Again, the extensive collaborations will allow the application of cutting-edge technology to turn this incredible trove of data into sensible information over the next few years.
For more information visit https://www.bioscape.io
AudioMoth deployed at Gamkaskloof Nature Reserve to record animal diversity. Photo credit: Alan Lee, Birdlife South Africa.
Related News
Marine Dynamics crowned winner of the ATTA® Marine Impact Award
Marine Dynamics Shark and Whale Tours has been honoured with the ATTA® Marine Impact Award during the Experience Africa Travel Conference in London on 23 June 2025. The award recognises organisations making a tangible difference in protecting Africa’s marine and coastal environments while fostering long-term community benefits.
Conservation Review 2025 highlights Western Cape’s biodiversity and conservation resilience and adaptability
CapeNature showcased its significant achievements in conservation operations and exceptional biodiversity protection over the past year.
The central message throughout the event and central to the theme was an emphasis on the successful partnerships the Entity has cultivated with stakeholders. Many of these partners were also in attendance, showcasing delivery on collaborative projects. The Entity relies on the productive co-operation of many partners to successfully execute its mandate in the Western Cape.
2025 State of Conservation Report highlights progress and priorities in protecting Western Cape biodiversity
CapeNature launched the 2025 State of Conservation Report this morning at its annual Conservation Review, offering a clear, evidence-based view of the Western Cape’s biodiversity and how conservation efforts are measuring up.
Key themes emerging from the report include sustained efforts to build biodiversity resilience in the face of climate change, the value of strategic partnerships, and the growing integration of monitoring data into planning and policy.
A Win for Renosterveld Conservation as Haarwegskloof Declared a Provincial Nature Reserve
In a major victory for biodiversity conservation, Haarwegskloof, which includes the largest remaining connected stretch of renosterveld left on Earth has officially been declared a provincial nature reserve.
The reserve is owned by WWF South Africa and managed by the Overberg Renosterveld Trust (ORT), a non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting and restoring the fragile renosterveld ecosystem that once covered large parts of the Overberg.
Damara Trail Wins Silver Award at International Tourism Film Festival Africa 2025
CapeNature is proud to announce that its Damara Trail video series has won the Silver Award in the Tourism – Products category at the prestigious International Tourism Film Festival Africa (ITFFA) 2025.
CapeNature’s videos stood out for their compelling storytelling, visual excellence, and ability to capture the essence of nature-based tourism in the Western Cape.
“We are incredibly proud that the Damara Trail videos have been recognised on an international platform. This award helps to underline our commitment to sustainable tourism offerings. Much like the Damara Trail itself, the video helps to tell the unique history and story of the Waenhuiskrans area to visitors both far and near,” said Sheraaz Ismail, Executive Director: Eco-Tourism and Access.
Climbing in Rocklands this Season? Here’s What You Need to Know After the Cederberg Fire
The Cederberg, a protected wilderness area managed by CapeNature and home to some of the most iconic climbing and bouldering routes in South Africa, was recently impacted by a wildfire that began on 7 March 2025. The fire ignited near Krakadouw Peak and burned for 13 days, before being fully contained on 20 March. In total, it scorched 20,834 hectares, spanning 97 kilometers of fire line, and included damage to the Rocklands “Bouldering Area” — a popular climbing zone. As a result of the fire, several popular climbing sectors and access routes have been damaged or are temporarily inaccessible.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?