NASA and ISRO satellite maps rapid land subsidence in Mexico City
A joint NASA and Indian Space Research Organisation satellite has produced new high resolution maps showing rapid ground subsidence beneath Mexico City. Early analysis indicates that parts of the metropolitan area are sinking by more than 2 centimetres per month, highlighting a growing geological and urban stability challenge in one of the world’s largest cities.
The data comes from the NISAR mission, a synthetic aperture radar satellite launched in July 2025 from India. It collected measurements between October 2025 and January 2026 using L band radar capable of detecting subtle shifts in Earth’s surface. Scientists used the system to monitor deformation across a metropolitan region home to nearly 20 million people.
Researchers link the sinking land to long term groundwater extraction combined with the weight of urban expansion. Mexico City sits on an ancient lakebed where sediment compaction has been accelerating for decades. Historical records show the issue was first documented in the early 20th century, with parts of the city sinking tens of centimetres annually during peak periods in the late 20th century.
Infrastructure damage has accumulated over time. Transport systems, buildings and monuments have all been affected by uneven ground movement. One of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, located along Paseo de la Reforma, has required structural adjustments as the surrounding ground level gradually lowered over the decades.
Scientists involved in the mission say the new radar system provides a more consistent global view of land deformation, regardless of weather or daylight conditions. The satellite, equipped with a large deployable antenna, is designed to scan Earth’s surface every 12 days. Researchers expect it to improve monitoring of subsidence zones, coastal risks and other ground level changes linked to both natural and human driven processes.
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