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OQOMETHI

Multi-scale Water Quality Observatory Using Innovative Hyperspectral Technologies

The project was funded by the Government as part of FRANCE 2030, operated by ADEME

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Project description

The OQOMETHI project focuses on monitoring and managing continental aquatic environments like lakes, rivers, and coastal lagoons, which are vital for biodiversity and ecosystem regulation. These ecosystems face increasing pressures from human activities and climate change. The project is aligned with the Water Framework Directive (WFD) and the European Green Deal.

The project deploys high-frequency in-situ micro-observatories using innovative technologies like Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) and miniaturized hyperspectral radiometers to monitor water quality. These systems measure radiometric data and key water quality parameters, such as chlorophyll-a, total suspended sediments, and dissolved organic matter, even in extreme conditions and at night. The collected data will be combined with satellite remote sensing information, providing a comprehensive, multi-scale monitoring solution.​

Supported by ADEME and aligned with France 2030, the project aims to fill gaps in water quality data, especially in areas underrepresented by traditional systems. The expected outcomes include better management of aquatic biodiversity, reduced water pollution risks, and improved decision-making for water resource management.​ The project will deploy up to 1000 micro-observatories across the country, providing real-time data for sectors like fisheries, tourism, hydropower, and agriculture.

Project objectives

The technical goal of the OQOMETHI project is to develop an integrated, compact sensor system that can be deployed at scale, combined with software solutions to generate and stream high-frequency data for water quality monitoring and satellite calibration of aquatic environments. The project leverages expertise in sensor development, data management, and optical measurement techniques. Specific objectives include:

Sensor Miniaturization: Developing compact, robust sensors for high-frequency, multi-site water quality monitoring, with reduced production costs while maintaining high metrological standards. 

Sensor Integration and Micro-Stations: Integrating advanced sensors into micro-stations to manage real-time data streams and interface with web-based data processing tools.

In-Situ Data Processing and Validation: Establishing algorithms for processing in-situ optical data to obtain high-precision water quality parameters. This includes real-time validation of satellite-derived data to improve the reliability and relevance of water quality monitoring.

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Environmental Objectives: The project aims to improve the management of national water bodies and river courses, adhering to regulatory frameworks while addressing local watershed management needs. High-frequency data collection will assess the impact of environmental policies, clarify legal responsibilities, and ensure sanitary safety for recreational and commercial water use.

Societal Impact: The project will raise public awareness and provide educational resources about water quality issues and environmental conservation, supporting informed citizen engagement and policy decisions through accessible data and visualizations.

Approach

A rigorous research plan will be employed to investigate the proposed topic. The implementation of the study consists of several steps, as described below.

Development of Passive and Active Sensors

Passive Radiometry: Development of a three-channel passive optical sensor to measure water reflectance at different wavelengths. This sensor helps calibrate satellite algorithms and validate satellite measurements.

Active Radiometry: Use of Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) to measure the concentration of chlorophyll-a, dissolved organic matter and total suspended sediments in the water. This system enables precise detection even under challenging conditions.

 

Design and Assembly of Micro-Observatories

Micro-Observatories: Integration of passive and active sensors into micro-stations (VorteX-io), placed above the water to avoid issues related to water contact (corrosion, complex maintenance).

Multi-Purpose Sensors: The stations measure several parameters like water height, surface water velocity, temperature, dissolved organic matter, sediments, chlorophyll-a, and cyanobacteria presence.

Data Processing and Algorithm Development

Correction and Analysis Algorithms: Development of algorithms to correct surface reflections and estimate key water quality parameters from hyperspectral data.

Validation of Satellite Products: The in-situ data collected are used to adjust satellite products, ensuring more accurate water quality estimates.

Integration into a Web Platform

MAELSTROM Platform: The data is sent in real-time to a central cloud system, where it is processed and displayed on a web interface, allowing users to track water quality and receive alerts about anomalies.

Remote Monitoring: The stations can be remotely monitored and updated, enabling efficient management and large-scale monitoring.

Validation and Experimentation

Validation Sites: Experimental sites are selected in collaboration with water agencies and biodiversity offices. Stations are installed on existing infrastructures like bridges to minimize costs and installation time.

Testing and Validation: Sensors are calibrated and validated in the field with regular sampling. Data is compared to field measurements and models to check the accuracy of the system.

OQOMETHI Scheme

Overview of the developed solution: (i) design and assembly of active and passive hyperspectral sensor prototypes, (ii) integration of sensors into micro-observatories, (iii) implementation of processing algorithms and their association with satellite imagery data, (iv) integration of data streams into the web interface and distribution of integrated information to users.

Members of the Consortium

LIFeLIDAR 

LIFeLiDAR specializes in developing micro-scale LIF (Laser-Induced Fluorescence) LiDAR and miniaturized radiometric prototypes for environmental monitoring across various aquatic environments. With expertise in laser-induced fluorescence and portable radiometers, the company focuses on precise, in-situ measurements. LIFeLiDAR is actively working to promote these prototypes for future commercialization and is expanding its network of collaborations to apply these innovative technologies in diverse scientific and environmental fields.

 

VorteX-io

​As the consortium coordinator, vorteX-io is responsible for integrating hardware and software solutions, managing data dissemination, and expanding the application of their micro-station technology for water quality monitoring. Their expertise lies in IoT-based environmental monitoring systems and private market deployment strategies, enabling real-time, scalable solutions for water resource management.

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Magellium

Magellium provides critical expertise in satellite-based remote sensing for water quality and is responsible for developing radiometric processing algorithms. The company enhances its services by integrating in-situ networks for calibration and validation, improving the quality of satellite-derived water monitoring data. Their efforts align with European ESA/Copernicus initiatives and the AMI Spatial Hydrology program, reinforcing Magellium's position in the geospatial and environmental service industries.

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