Simon van Diepen

Simon van Diepen is a PhD candidate in the Department of Geosciences and Remote Sensing at the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology. He began his doctoral research in August 2020, specializing in earth observation from space to monitor ground subsidence in the Netherlands using InSAR technology.

He holds a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering. During his MSc thesis at SRON Space Research Organization Netherlands, he estimated methane emission rates based on satellite observations, establishing his expertise in environmental remote sensing applications.

Van Diepen's research focuses on quantifying subsidence rates in the Dutch peat pastures of the Green Heart region (between Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Utrecht) through the Regiodeal Groene Hart project. His work analyzes elevation changes over time to understand impacts on flooding risks and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to environmental management in vulnerable landscapes. Primary research domains include Remote Sensing, Geodesy, Earth Observation, and Environmental Science.

As part of the Regiodeal Groene Hart initiative, he collaborates with regional stakeholders to address subsidence challenges in one of the Netherlands' most ecologically significant areas. His methodology employs satellite-based InSAR technology for precise elevation monitoring, supporting climate adaptation strategies in peatland regions.