Radar technology in space can be used to measure how ‘thirsty’ plants and crops are. This could play a key role in improving our understanding of how ecosystems and the water and carbon cycles interrelate. In theory, we have the technology to monitor crops on a global scale and identify where remedial action is needed. On Friday 1 December, Tim van Emmerik will be awarded his PhD at TU Delft for his work on the subject.