Objectives of the service
WatAirDrop addresses the combined challenges of limited irrigation water and weather-related crop damage. The concept combines atmospheric water harvesting, automated drip irrigation and an adjustable protective net structure, supported by local sensors and satellite information.
The intended benefits are reduced dependence on external water supplies, better management of crop exposure and more informed responses to changing weather. The study examines these benefits under practical operating conditions, including the influence of local humidity and weather on water collection.
The Kick-Start activity covers user needs, system performance, satellite-enabled functions and the commercial case for further development. Its findings support decisions on technical improvements and a route towards market introduction.
Users and their needs
The initial target users are fruit growers, vineyard operators and vegetable producers in Hungary. These growers need reliable water supplies and practical ways to manage frost, hail and excessive sun exposure.
Their principal needs are:
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Supplementary irrigation water where conventional supplies are constrained.
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Crop protection adapted to changing weather conditions.
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Automated operation that limits routine manual intervention.
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Clear information on system status and performance.
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Affordable installation, operation and maintenance.
The study assesses how the proposed service fits these needs and the conditions under which adoption is technically and economically justified.
Service/ system concept
The WatAirDrop concept combines a movable net structure, atmospheric water collection, water storage and controlled drip irrigation. Local sensors provide information on environmental conditions and system operation. A control unit uses these inputs to manage the equipment and support monitoring.
The proposed service brings together local measurements and satellite-derived information to inform protective actions and irrigation decisions. Satellite connectivity is assessed for locations where terrestrial communications are limited.
The test installation provides operational data for evaluating the concept, identifying technical limitations and defining improvements. The study also examines how the hardware and monitoring functions can be offered as a commercially viable solution for growers.
Space Added Value
Earth observation and satellite meteorological information are assessed as sources of wider-area environmental and weather context. These inputs can complement measurements at the installation and support more informed decisions on crop protection and system operation.
Satellite communications are assessed as an option for remote monitoring and control where mobile or fixed networks are unavailable or unreliable.
The added value under investigation is the combination of local sensing with broader environmental information and connectivity beyond terrestrial network coverage. The study examines the suitability, practical integration and costs of these space-enabled functions; their performance and benefits remain subject to validation.
Current Status
The WatAirDrop prototype has been installed, covering approximately 102 m² with an adjustable protective net. Sensor data guide the operator on when to open or close the net to support moisture retention. Monitoring is underway within the covered area and an adjacent uncovered reference area. The collected data are being used to assess the system’s performance and guide further development.
Prime Contractor(s)
