Falcon 9 and Cargo Dragon launched at 20:55 UTC on 21 March 2024, for SpaceX's 30th commercial resupply services mission to the International Space Station.

NASA and partner research flying aboard the CRS-30 mission includes a look at plant metabolism in space and a set of new sensors for free-flying Astrobee robots to provide 3D mapping capabilities.

This project is significant for enhancing agricultural practices, water management, and climate prediction by offering a more accessible method to gather important environmental data.

Unlike traditional methods that face challenges with radio frequency spectrum access and require large antennas, SNOOPI uses an innovative approach that captures reflected signals from the Earth's surface to measure moisture and snow depth.

This technique, known as P-band signals of opportunity reflectometry, is effective because it can penetrate vegetation and provide accurate data on soil and snow conditions.

Plants can be used in regenerative life support systems, to provide food, and to contribute to the well-being of astronauts on future deep space exploration missions.

Its potential applications on Earth include providing data for weather and climate models and improving the understanding of ocean phenomena such as surface winds and storm surge.

The technology could be used for autonomous operation of spacecraft with minimal or no human occupancy where robots must sense the environment and precisely maneuver, including the lunar Gateway space station.