Towards the quantitative and physically-based interpretation of solar-induced vegetation fluorescence retrieved from global imaging

Due to emerging high spectral resolution, remote sensing techniques and ongoing developments retrieve the spectrally resolved vegetation fluorescence spectrum from several scales, light reactions of photosynthesis are receiving a boost attention for monitoring Earth's carbon balance. Sensor-retrieved (from leaf, tower, airborne or satellite scale) originating excited antenna chlorophyll molecule has become new quantitative biophysical parameter retrievable space using global imaging techniques. However, actual quantum efficiencies, hence true photosynthetic status observed vegetation, all signal distortions must be accounted for, high-precision reflectance resolved. ESA's upcoming Fluorescence Explorer aims deliver such novel products thanks technological instrumental advances, by sophisticated approaches that will enable deeper understanding mechanics energy transfer underlying process in plant canopies ecosystems.