Joint WG1-WG2 Field Day: Remote Sensing & Proximal Phenotyping in Action

Professor Morten Lillemo, together with Dr. Sahameh Shafiee (NMBU), hosted a PANGEOS COST Action focused on cutting-edge sensing technologies and phenotyping approaches in plant research.

The event took place on June 19–20 at Vollebekk Station, bringing together experts in remote sensing (RS) and proximal phenotyping (PP) to explore and demonstrate a range of sensor platforms in real-world field conditions.

We welcomed 28 participants from across Europe, and the hands-on workshop provided a valuable opportunity to strengthen our network.

Featured Research Platforms & Projects

• PheNo Infrastructure at NMBU: National field phenotyping platform enabling integrated sensordeployment, data collection, and analysis.
• SmartWheat Project (NMBU): Wheat drought trials conducted under controlled stress conditionsto evaluate genotype responses using advanced phenotyping methods.
• ProteinBar Project: Barley trials with dual fertilization levels to study nutrient impacts

Technologies on Display

• RGB & Multispectral Imaging: Four- and five-band sensors mounted on UAVs
• MicaSense Multispectral Sensor (DJI M600 platform)
• Piccolo Doppio Hyperspectral Point Sensor
• Field Spectrometers (350–2500nm): Spectral Evolution PSR+ 3500 (via NERC Field Spectroscopy Facility); Spectra Vista Corporation HR-1024i (via NERC)
• SPAD Chlorophyll Meter

Objectives of the Field Day

1. Demonstrate the capabilities of various RS and PP sensors in field conditions
2. Showcase complementary data acquisition via proximal platforms and UAVs
3. Facilitate knowledge exchange across disciplines and institutions
4. Conduct live demonstrations of data collection, processing, and early-stage analysis.