Soil Moisture Mapping With A Portable Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensor

Soil Moisture Mapping with a Portable Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensor

Soil Moisture Mapping with a Portable Cosmic Ray Neutron Sensor

This publication was developed as an informational guide for soil moisture mapping at landscape level through a portable 'backpack' cosmic-ray neutron sensor. This recently developed device monitors soil water content in a non-invasive way using background neutron counts. It is used to measure water content in the topsoil over wide areas, covering approximately 20 hectares with one single measurement. Through its mobility and combining series of measurements, this provides the spatial variability of the soil water content for better agricultural water management. The publication provides scientists, technicians and students with the necessary information, guidance and steps to calibrate, validate and deploy this portable cosmic-ray neutron sensor.

Cosmic ray neutron sensing

Soil moisture dynamics are crucial for effective agricultural land management, yet traditional measurement methods face limitations in accuracy and scalability. Addressing this challenge, the cosmic ray neutron sensor (CRNS) technique emerges as a non-invasive, spatially extensive solution for monitoring soil moisture variability.In this groundbreaking book, the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre pioneers the integration of CRNS into agricultural practices, offering comprehensive guidelines and practical insights derived from the latest research. Supported by the FAO/IAEA Coordinated Research Project D12014 on “Enhancing Agricultural Resilience and Water Security Using Cosmic-Ray Neutron Technology”, this publication focuses on enhancing CRNS methodologies and facilitating their application in agriculture.Divided into four chapters, the book caters to both novice and experienced users, providing step-by-step instructions on data processing techniques, advanced soil moisture estimation methods, and satellite image validation approaches. By bridging the gap between research and application, it empowers stakeholders across the agricultural spectrum with the tools and knowledge necessary for sustainable soil moisture management.From governmental agencies to individual farmers, this initiative equips stakeholders with the resources to optimize crop production, mitigate water scarcity, and safeguard food security in an ever-changing agricultural landscape.