Episode 36 • Bringing Space Tech to the Farm: NASA's Role in Agriculture with Dr. Alyssa Whitcraft

In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims speaks with Dr. Alyssa Whitcraft, a research professor at the University of Maryland and a leader in NASA’s agricultural initiatives. They discuss how satellite technology is revolutionizing farming, providing real-time data on crop conditions, weather patterns, and soil health.

Dr. Whitcraft explains how NASA’s Acres Program aims to bridge the gap between space-based data and on-the-ground farming decisions. By working directly with farmers and agricultural organizations, the initiative helps improve yield forecasting, resource management, and climate resilience. They also explore the Farm Innovation Ambassador Team (FIAT) program, which fosters collaboration between researchers and producers to ensure that satellite-driven insights directly benefit the farming community.

The conversation highlights the critical role of farmers in global food security and economic stability. With agriculture facing increasing challenges—from climate change to economic pressures—this episode emphasizes the importance of innovation, collaboration, and ensuring that farmers have access to the best technology available.