Advanced space technology is driving smarter farming - Farms.com

Oct 13, 2026By Farms.com Estimating evapotranspiration to help farmers track crop water use. Kansas State University and NASA recently highlighted their partnership at the Flickner Innovation Farm, where satellite-based technologies are being tested to help farmers improve water management, crop monitoring and long-term sustainability. The visit was part of NASA's Space for Ag tour, which connects researchers, producers and agricultural leaders to explore practical uses of satellite data in farming. The Flickner Innovation Farm near Moundridge, Kansas, serves as a testing ground for new agricultural technologies under real farming conditions. Operated by Ray Flickner and his son Ryan, the farm evaluates precision agriculture tools, conservation practices and data-driven strategies that can benefit producers. “This unique collaboration brings NASA's space-based capabilities and satellite data together with K-State's ability to test that information under real-world farm conditions,” said Hans Coetzee, vice president for research at Kansas State University. “Water, soil health and agricultural resilience are wicked problems.