ESA's FLEX Mission to Monitor Plant Photosynthesis from Orbit

The European Space Agency (ESA) is preparing to launch its FLuorescence EXplorer (FLEX) mission on September 15, 2026. This satellite will measure solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence (SIF) globally to observe plant photosynthesis from space. The mission aims to provide critical insights into vegetation's response to climate change and its role in carbon and water cycles, supporting climate-resilient agriculture and ecosystem protection.