top of page

P-Band (400 MHz) Polarimeter for Irrigation

Sensor & Installation

The sensor operates on solar power and includes a 12V lead-acid battery, eliminating the need for pivot rewiring. Its horizontal mounts comprise four aluminum pipes, each 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, which can be sourced and manufactured locally.

Data collection occurs while the pivot is in motion. When stationary, data are captured hourly.

Cloud Processing

The sensor uploads raw data directly to Skaha's server. Data acquired during pivot rotation undergo processing to differentiate unpolarized from polarized emissions, with the assumption that polarized emissions result from radio interference. Stationary data undergo a similar processing. Both raw and processed data are then transferred to a designated Google Drive folder.

Note: Cellular service is essential for the optimal functioning of the pivot-mounted sensor.

Calibration

We predict average soil moisture levels for individual fields using our proprietary land surface model. This modelled average serves as a calibration reference for the microwave data, translating it into units of volumetric water content. Furthermore, the model assists in converting this volumetric water content into plant-available water values according to specific soil textures.

Daily Moisture Status Emails

The system generates daily status emails with the most important, up-to-date information about the field's moisture status, such as average field moisture, plant available water level, evapotranspiration, and a prediction of the water balance for the next seven days. This information is complemented by soil moisture maps for the field.

Integration time (adjustable)
Up to 120 seconds
Theoretical sensing depth
50 cm
Data outputs
Brightness temperature of polarized and unpolarized component.
Max. Bandwidth
12 MHz
Number of FFT channels
256
Cellular band
worldwide
Power supply
10 - 35 VDC
Polarization
Dual linear (horizontal & vertical)
Operating frequency
380 - 420 MHz
Antenna HPBW
65 deg
Antenna dimensions
45 x 45 x 15 cm
Telemetry unit weight (incl. battery)
4.5 kg
Antenna weight
2.5 kg

Options and Pricing

Included:

- Antenna

- Digital processor and telemetry

- Cellular modem and SIM card

- 12V lead-acid battery

Not included:

- Mounts

- Solar panel

1

Single Sensor (Academic Version)

For data collection in either clockwise or anti-clockwise direction ahead of irrigation.

System: $16,500

Cellular service plan and cloud access: $250 billed annually

(in Canadian Dollars)

2

Single Sensor (Consumer Version)

Allows data collection in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction ahead of irrigation.

Annual subscription:

$2000

(in Canadian Dollars)

3

Additional Antenna (for bi-directional operation)

Additional antenna for a single-sensor system:

Academic version: $2,500

Consumer version: $250 annually

(in Canadian Dollars)

bottom of page