MENA Space Leaders Visit UMD’s GeoCenter

Group photo of MENA Space Leaders visit, posing in front of a large presentation screen.

Delegation explores opportunities for collaboration in Earth observation and satellite applications.

On Nov. 5, 2025, the International Center for Innovation in Geospatial Analytics and Earth Observation (GeoCenter) in the Department of Geographical Sciences hosted a distinguished delegation of MENA space leaders from Bahrain, Egypt and Oman.

GeoCenter Director Mengxue Li chaired the meeting. Co-Director Chris Justice opened the session with remarks highlighting the University of Maryland’s global leadership in Earth observation science. GEOG Chair Tatiana Loboda welcomed the delegation and provided an overview of the department’s research and education programs, emphasizing interdisciplinary initiatives and international partnerships.

Faculty members Ralph Dubayah, Matthew Hansen, Xiaopeng Song, Kathleen Stewart and Loboda delivered presentations showcasing UMD’s research in global land-cover mapping, lidar-based forest monitoring, remote sensing analytics and GIS innovations. 

The talks sparked robust discussion with the visiting representatives about potential collaboration, including joint research, training and technical exchange in satellite applications, spatial analytics and education.

The meeting concluded with strong mutual interest in expanding partnerships between UMD and MENA institutions to advance Earth observation research, capacity building and educational opportunities.

Image: MENA delegation and GEOG faculty, courtesy of Mengxue Li.

Published on Fri, 11/07/2025 - 15:04