The EO Excellence Award 2026 recognises Isabel Caballero, a scientist at the Spanish National Research Council (ICMAN-CSIC), for her outstanding contribution to advancing the use of Earth Observation in coastal science.

Coastal environments are among the most dynamic and complex systems on Earth. Located at the interface between land and sea, they are shaped by a wide range of physical and biological processes while also being increasingly affected by climate change, extreme events and human activity. Despite their importance for ecosystems, economies and communities, they remain difficult to monitor consistently at the level of detail they demand.

Isabel Caballero’s award-winning project, IMCOAST (Integrated Monitoring of Coastal Areas with Sentinel-2 satellites), addresses this challenge by leveraging the capabilities of Copernicus satellite data, particularly from the Sentinel-2 mission. The project proposes an innovative approach to coastal observation by combining cutting-edge multispectral remote sensing tools from the Copernicus programme with advanced calibration, validation, and modelling techniques.

Through IMCOAST, Isabel is developing new methodologies to monitor key coastal challenges with unprecedented detail, including: harmful algal blooms (HABs), water quality deterioration and eutrophication, impacts of extreme events, and coastal erosion. By integrating satellite data with in situ measurements and emerging analytical techniques, the project seeks to reduce uncertainties and improve the accuracy of satellite-derived information, a critical step towards enabling routine and large-scale coastal monitoring.

The project also contributes to the sustainable development of coastal regions by providing valuable insights for sectors of the blue economy, including aquaculture, tourism, fisheries and maritime activities. By linking Earth Observation technologies with real-world needs, IMCOAST strengthens the connection between scientific research and societal impact.

Isabel Caballero’s research exemplifies how Earth Observation can be transformed into a powerful tool for understanding and managing some of the planet’s most vulnerable environments. Her work not only advances the scientific frontier but also contributes to building more resilient and sustainable coastal systems.