The concept of SMASH shows that a constellation of 10 nano-satellites with nadir altimeters on a single sun-synchronous orbit can provide a daily measure of water levels at rivers wider than 50 m and lakes larger than 100 m x 100 m. Blue Water Intelligence (BWI) plans to launch a minimum viable product of 2 satellites to validate assumptions, followed by a constellation of 10 nanosatellites – all following the SMASH concept to the letter.

SMASH mission as envisioned by LEGOS, a research lab, and designed by CNES (phase A completed) shows that a constellation of 10 nanosatellites with nadir altimeter may provide daily water level measurements of lakes and rivers around the world.

BWI aims at launching and operating this constellation and has brought together a panel of renowned scientists from around the world to discuss the prospects of a SMASH-style space constellation towards continental freshwater monitoring, climate resilience, and transboundary cooperation. Click on the image below to access the registration page and book your seat (free).

Jeremy Fain, our CEO, was a speaker at the UN Global Compact CEO Water Mandate, side-event of the UN 2023 Water Conference, on Thursday, March 22nd 2023 afternoon at The Yale Club of New York City.

The event focused on what must be done to achieve positive outcomes in at least 100 basins by 2030 across the key dimensions of Sustainable Development Goal 6 (‘Ensure access to water and sanitation for all’), including water quantity, quality and accessibility.