LeakHunter

In Hungary, up to 20–25% of drinking water is lost due to aging infrastructure. Most leaks remain invisible underground and are only detected after causing serious damage.

HydroScan makes this invisible problem visible. Using Copernicus satellite data and AI, we analyze soil moisture and thermal anomalies to detect leaks early. Our platform highlights risk zones on a map, enabling utilities to act faster and more efficiently.

By reducing water loss and operational costs, HydroScan supports sustainable and equitable access to water.

HydroScan is a satellite-driven, AI-powered system designed to detect hidden water leaks in urban water distribution networks.

The solution leverages Copernicus Sentinel satellite data, primarily:

• Sentinel-1 (SAR radar) to monitor soil moisture changes, even through clouds and at night
• Sentinel-2 (optical imagery) to analyze vegetation stress and surface changes
• Sentinel-3 (thermal data) to detect temperature anomalies that may indicate underground leaks

These datasets are processed over time to identify spatiotemporal anomalies—patterns that deviate from normal environmental conditions. For example, persistent soil moisture increases in urban areas without rainfall may indicate leakage.

An AI model is then applied to:

• filter out false positives (e.g., rain, irrigation)
• detect recurring abnormal patterns
• assign a leak probability score to each location

The results are visualized in an interactive dashboard, where water utilities can:

• view high-risk zones on a map
• prioritize inspections and repairs
• monitor changes over time

Optionally, the system can integrate Galileo positioning data for precise field validation and reporting.

As a developer, I am building an application that uses Copernicus satellite data to automatically detect patterns related to water leakage. My goal is to transform raw space data into an accessible map-based decision-support platform that helps utilities respond faster and more efficiently.

Benefits (HydroScan)

• Scalable – works globally without requiring on-site sensor infrastructure
• Cost-effective – built on free Copernicus Programme data
• Innovative – combines satellite data with AI
• Early detection – identifies hidden leaks before major damage occurs
• Precise localization – enables targeted interventions
• Decision support – clear, map-based visualization
• Sustainable – reduces water loss and waste
• Social impact – supports fair and efficient access to water