In a new partnership EOMAP, the European Space Agency (ESA) and Angola Westbrook Racing are set to enhance environmental monitoring across the E1 Championship, a series of electric powerboat racing. The initiative will launch at the Lake Como race on 24–25 April 2026. It is a new step in applying Earth Observation science to water sports events.

‘High-resolution satellite data can tell a lot about water quality. Through the insights we create, we wish to help Westbrook Racing better understand and manage the ecological footprint of the races. Together, we will demonstrate how Earth Observation can guide the responsible development of water-based events,’ stated Dr. Eva Maria Haas, Head of Strategic Accounts Europe at EOMAP.

Science‑Based Water Quality Monitoring Across Race Venues

At the heart of the collaboration is EOMAP’s advanced water quality monitoring. Using satellite data, the programme introduces a non‑intrusive, science‑driven approach to understanding how race activity interacts with local aquatic ecosystems.

Drawing on imagery from ESA’s Copernicus Sentinel‑2 mission and Planet SuperDove satellites, EOMAP will deliver high‑resolution, near real‑time insights into environmental conditions before, during, and after race events.

Turbidity Analysis to Understand Sediment Disturbance

A key focus of the monitoring framework is water turbidity. EOMAP’s analysis will help identify sediment disturbance patterns that may be linked to race operations or external environmental factors, supporting a more informed assessment of environmental impact at each venue.

This data will provide valuable context for race planning, helping the team manage activities responsibly in sensitive water environments.

Satellite Detection of Floating Plastic Pollution

In parallel, EOMAP will conduct dedicated analysis of floating plastic debris using satellite imagery. This work will support the identification of pollution

accumulation zones and track changes over time. This will also help define priority areas for targeted clean‑up efforts in collaboration with local authorities and environmental organisations.

Actionable Environmental Intelligence Through Cloud‑Based Analytics

All insights generated by EOMAP’s water quality services will be integrated into the cloud‑based analytics platform eoapp AQUA. This will give Westbrook Racing direct access to actionable environmental intelligence for operational use, post‑event assessment, and transparent reporting to stakeholders, communities, and fans.

Lake Como as a Benchmark for Championship‑Wide Rollout

The Lake Como event will serve as the first deployment of the monitoring framework, establishing a benchmark for future race locations. The programme is designed to scale across the E1 Championship calendar, creating a consistent approach to water quality monitoring at each venue.

• Read the full press release of Westbrook Racing here.