Using satellite radar data, scientists have created a global map that quantifies the amount of wood in our forests – a key to understanding Earth's carbon cycle and, ultimately, climate change.

Mangareva, French Polynesia

The KazEOSat-1 satellite acquired this view of Mangareva in 2016. One of the Gambier Islands, Mangareva is the largest island in French Polynesia.

EUMETSAT and Arianespace announced the signature of a contract entrusting Arianespace with the launch of the first two Metop-SG satellites of the EUMETSAT Polar System of Second Generation plus an option for the launch of a third satellite.

A NASA-produced map of areas likely damaged by the 19 September magnitude 7.1 Raboso earthquake near Mexico City has been provided to Mexican authorities to help responders and groups supporting the response efforts. The quake, which struck 75 miles (120 kilometres) south-east of Mexico City, caused significant loss of life and property damage.

The Earth's protective ozone layer is well on track to recovery thanks to a highly successful environmental agreement which marks its 30th anniversary on 16 September.

Australia will establish a national space agency, the government has said. The country is largely reliant on overseas nations like the United States for its satellite and earth observation data.