The NASA DEVELOP Program has been instrumental in fostering environmental sustainability and advancing STEM education in Bhutan through collaborative projects that integrate Earth observation data into local decision-making processes. This partnership has not only enhanced Bhutan's capacity to address environmental challenges but also provided valuable opportunities for Bhutanese scholars to engage in applied science initiatives.

Introduction to the NASA DEVELOP Program

The NASA DEVELOP Program, part of NASA's Applied Sciences Program, addresses environmental and policy concerns by applying NASA Earth observations to real-world issues. It engages students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals in 10-week feasibility studies that assess the potential for integrating NASA Earth observing satellite data into partner organization decision-making processes. These projects provide experiential learning opportunities while building the institutional capacity of partner organizations. ([science.jpl.nasa.gov](

Establishing the Partnership with Bhutan

In 2019, Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited NASA's Ames Research Center in California, where he was introduced to various NASA programs. Recognizing the potential benefits, Bhutan approached the U.S. State Department to collaborate on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) initiatives. This led to the establishment of a partnership aimed at enhancing Bhutan's environmental conservation efforts and promoting sustainable development through the use of Earth observation data. ([nasa.gov](

Collaborative Projects and Initiatives

Since the inception of the partnership, several collaborative projects have been undertaken to address Bhutan's environmental and agricultural challenges:

  • Farm Action Toolkit (FAcT): Developed by NASA's SERVIR program in collaboration with Bhutanese experts, FAcT utilizes satellite imagery to identify and measure farmland, aiding the National Land Commission in efficiently reaching eligible farmers and supporting food security initiatives. ([nasa.gov](
  • Applied Remote Sensing Training Program (ARSET): In early 2024, ARSET, in partnership with SERVIR and Druk Holdings and Investments (DHI), hosted a workshop for 46 Bhutanese government personnel. The workshop focused on managing natural resources, land use planning, and disaster monitoring using Earth observation data. ([nasa.gov](
  • Bhutan Agriculture II Project: Undertaken by four Bhutanese students studying in the U.S., this project aimed to develop crop masks for rice and create data collection protocols using remotely sensed data. The initiative was presented virtually in August 2022, highlighting the integration of satellite technology into Bhutan's agricultural monitoring. ([mfa.gov.bt](

Empowering Bhutanese Scholars

The DEVELOP Program has played a pivotal role in empowering Bhutanese scholars by providing them with opportunities to apply Earth observation data to real-world problems. Since 2020, DEVELOP has engaged 30 Bhutanese scholars in projects focused on environmental issues in Bhutan. These projects have offered participants the chance to gain geospatial knowledge, project management skills, and science communication experience. ([ntrs.nasa.gov](

For instance, Tenzin Wangmo, a high school biology teacher in Bhutan, participated in DEVELOP projects focusing on agriculture and water resources. She noted that the lessons learned from these projects have been instrumental in connecting with her students about STEM opportunities and environmental issues. ([nasa.gov](

Strengthening Environmental Decision-Making

The collaboration between NASA and Bhutan has significantly enhanced the country's environmental decision-making processes. By integrating satellite data into national land management decisions, Bhutan has improved its capacity to monitor and manage natural resources effectively. The partnership has also fostered the development of geospatial jobs, addressing environmental issues and contributing to the nation's sustainable development goals. ([nasa.gov](

Future Prospects and Continued Collaboration

The success of the NASA DEVELOP Program in Bhutan underscores the potential for continued collaboration in addressing global environmental challenges. The partnership has not only provided Bhutan with valuable tools and knowledge but has also facilitated cultural exchange and mutual learning. As Bhutan continues to prioritize environmental conservation and sustainable development, the integration of Earth observation data will remain a critical component of its strategy. ([nasa.gov](

Sources

  • NASA — NASA, Bhutan Conclude Five Years of Teamwork on STEM, Sustainability —
  • NASA — Advancing STEM in Bhutan through Increased Earth Observation Capacity: Applying NASA DEVELOP’s Model to Bhutanese Scholars —
  • NASA — DEVELOP —
  • NASA — NASA DEVELOP’s Second All-Bhutanese Cohort is Open for Applications —
  • NASA — Passing the Earth Science Baton in Bhutan —