On March 28, 2025, the WTE program in collaboration with the CADEO project, hosted a research seminar that brought together researchers from Vietnam and Japan to explore how satellite technologies and geospatial science are transforming climate monitoring, urban planning, and water resource management.
Geospatial Innovation with Open Data and Open Source Tools
In a collaborative effort across borders, Prof. Venkatesh Raghavan from Osaka Metropolitan University introduced advanced applications of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) in geospatial analysis. Their case studies ranged from satellite-derived bathymetry in the Caribbean and tsunami simulations in Japan, to land-use classification in northern Vietnam using deep learning. Their work highlighted how open-access tools and data are making high-impact geospatial solutions more accessible, especially for local governments and researchers in developing countries.
Vietnam’s Earth Observation Efforts: Satellite Monitoring in Action
Dr. Lam Dao Nguyen from the HCMC Space Technology Application Center (STAC), under the Vietnam National Space Center (VNSC), presented current research projects using satellite data for climate and agricultural monitoring. From mapping forest changes and rice production to detecting land subsidence and mangrove degradation, VNSC’s initiatives reflect the growing role of Earth observation in supporting environmental planning and disaster resilience in Vietnam. The upcoming launch of LOTUSat-1 in 2025 is expected to significantly enhance Vietnam’s radar imaging capacity.
Tackling Climate Challenges in the Mekong Delta
A key session was led by Dr. Doan Van Binh, lecturer at VGU, who shared research on how climate change, dam development, and sand mining are altering the hydrology of the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD). His presentation, which reflects the focus of the River Management specialization in the WTE program, used satellite data, field surveys, numerical modeling, and machine learning to track altered flow regimes, riverbed erosion, riverbank erosion, reduced sediment flow, and increasing salinity intrusion — critical issues for the long-term sustainability of the region.
Dr. Binh’s research demonstrates how VGU’s WTE program equips students with interdisciplinary, applied skills to address real-world water and environmental challenges — particularly in vulnerable riverine systems like the Mekong.
Inspiring Innovation in Earth Sciences
The seminar offered valuable insights for students, researchers, and practitioners interested in remote sensing, machine learning, hydrology, and open geospatial technologies. From riverbank erosion in the Mekong Delta to urban growth in Colombo, the presentations underscored the transformative role of satellite data and geoinformatics in environmental science and sustainable development.
For Further Inquiries
For more information on the seminar or research collaborations, please contact Dr. Doan Van Binh at: binh.dv@vgu.edu.vn
Tác giả : RMD