On July 25, 2024, The Small Earth Nepal (SEN) successfully hosted an engaging interaction program centered on hydrological experiments and the validation of the SWOT (Surface Water and Ocean Topography) satellite product. The workshop aimed to provide participants with insights into cutting-edge hydrological research and the applications of SWOT satellite data in water resource management.
The esteemed guest speaker for this program was Assistant Professor Bo Wang from St. Louis University. Currently in Nepal, Professor Wang is actively involved in hydrological experiments and research validation of the SWOT satellite products. Professor Wang holds a Ph.D. in Geography and an M.Sc. in Watershed Hydrology from Louisiana State University, along with degrees in Geologic Remote Sensing and GIS from the China University of Geosciences, his extensive experience in remote sensing and hydrology provided valuable knowledge and practical applications to the participants.
Dr. Dhiraj Pradhananga, President of SEN and UNESCO Chairholder in Mountain Water Sustainability (Tribhuvan University), led the workshop, providing additional expertise and ensuring the program’s success.
The program was attended by students, researchers, and professionals from a range of academic institutions, including the Department of Meteorology at Tri-Chandra Multiple Campus, the Department of Applied Sciences and Chemical Engineering at the Institute of Engineering, Pulchowk Campus – M.Sc. in Climate Change and Development, Master degree in Interdisciplinary Water Resource Management, Nepal Engineering College, Center for Postgraduate Studies, and the Central Department of Hydrology and Meteorology in Kirtipur.
Professor Wang provided a comprehensive overview of the SWOT satellite, its capabilities, and its significance in hydrological research. SWOT is designed to provide high-resolution measurements of global water surface elevations, river discharge estimates. Professor Wang shared insights from his ongoing research in Nepal, highlighting the practical applications of SWOT data in local water resource management.
SEN remains committed to fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among students, researchers, and professionals in the field of climate science and water resource management.