Lemu Nge: Chile’s satellite for biodiversity monitoring

Lemu Nge, launched by Chilean startup Lemu, marks a historic milestone as the world’s first nanosatellite dedicated exclusively to monitoring Earth’s biodiversity. This innovative satellite, no larger than a shoebox, is set to transform our approach to environmental conservation by providing unprecedented insights into the health of our planet's ecosystems. Lemu Nge’s mission is clear: to close the significant data gaps that currently hinder effective biodiversity management and conservation efforts, starting with Chile and expanding to the Global South and eventually the entire world.


(Photo: Lemu Nge satellite, successfully launched by SpaceX on August 16, 2024)

Despite its small size, Lemu Nge is packed with cutting-edge technology that positions it at the forefront of environmental monitoring. The satellite’s hyperspectral camera, capable of capturing 32 spectral bands, offers a 20-fold increase in data resolution compared to existing technology. This allows scientists and environmentalists to observe details invisible to the human eye, such as specific plant species, changes in land use, and even underwater macroalgae forests. Additionally, Lemu Nge’s innovative liquid metal ion propulsion system ensures the satellite can de-orbit safely at the end of its mission, preventing space debris and contributing to sustainable space operations.


(Photo: the Lemu team. Lemu)

Lemu Nge’s initial mission focuses on Chile, a region with substantial geospatial data gaps. This focus is vital because the Southern hemisphere, particularly regions like Chile, has historically been underrepresented in global environmental data collection. By targeting key areas such as Ramsar-designated Andean wetlands and underwater macroalgae forests along the Chilean coast, Lemu Nge will provide critical data to guide conservation strategies. The satellite’s ability to classify land use changes and identify key plant species, including invasive species, will offer unprecedented support to environmental management efforts in Chile and beyond.

The success of Lemu Nge is a testament to the power of global collaboration. This project brought together experts in Earth science, aerospace engineering, and information technology from across the globe. Designed in Chile, assembled in Lithuania, and equipped with components from South Africa and Austria, Lemu Nge represents a truly international effort to address one of the most pressing issues of our time: the environmental crisis. The satellite’s launch by SpaceX from the United States underscores the global commitment to leveraging technology for the protection of our planet.

While Lemu Nge’s initial focus is on Chile, the satellite’s mission will soon expand to the Global South and eventually cover the entire planet. This expansion is crucial in filling the global biodiversity data gaps that currently hinder effective conservation efforts. By providing detailed, high-resolution data on ecosystems around the world, Lemu Nge will enable governments, NGOs, and conservationists to make informed decisions to protect biodiversity and combat the environmental crisis. This data will be instrumental in designing and implementing nature-based solutions that are both effective and sustainable.

At 3Bee, we’ve launched this new format on our blog to showcase exemplary projects like Lemu Nge that are making a significant impact on global biodiversity. Lemu’s mission closely aligns with our own efforts at 3Bee to use advanced technology for environmental monitoring and protection. Just as Lemu Nge bridges the biodiversity data gap, 3Bee provides comprehensive solutions for Climate and Biodiversity Strategy. Our platform offers personalized assessment, regeneration, and training solutions, all in one place, fully compliant with ESRS E-4 and GRI 101 standards. We help businesses integrate biodiversity into their corporate strategy, ensuring they meet the highest standards for sustainability and environmental responsibility.