Arabella Golf Mallorca has presented the first results from its SATGOLF project, a smart early-warning system that combines artificial intelligence, environmental sensors and hyperlocal climate data to optimise water management, anticipate extreme weather events and enhance safety for staff and players.
The results of the project were presented in a recent webinar session, where the system’s technological architecture and its practical on-course application were addressed, incorporating direct insights from Arabella Golf’s greenkeeping team.
SATGOLF monitors in real time critical variables such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning, soil humidity and compaction. Thanks to this predictive capacity, it enables precise irrigation management, reduced water consumption and more effective decision-making under adverse conditions.
One of the key highlights of the session was the explanation of how the system has supported the transition from a traditional model based on fixed scheduling and accumulated experience to a data-driven, hyperlocal anticipatory management approach.
The operation of the lightning detection and convective cell tracking system was also detailed, enabling reinforced safety measures through early warnings and increased response time in the face of adverse weather conditions.
SATGOLF was presented as a practical case of digital transformation within a large-scale sports tourism environment, demonstrating that technology can be integrated into real operations without disrupting course dynamics, while enhancing anticipation and coordination capabilities.
The solution developed is modular and scalable, opening the door to implementation at other golf courses and large outdoor resort complexes, contributing to sustainability, resilience and destination competitiveness.
The SATGOLF project, which has been funded with a €150,000 investment from the European Union’s NextGenerationEC programme, forms part of measures aimed at promoting the digitalisation, sustainability and resilience of the tourism sector through innovative solutions focused on resource efficiency and climate change adaptation.
Bernat Llobera, Director of Golf at Arabella Golf Resort Mallorca, commented: “Implementing the new SATGOLF AI-powered technology represents a major step forward in how we manage and irrigate our golf courses. The real-time data on rainfall and soil humidity allows our greenkeeping team to plan and target irrigation, reducing water consumption while ensuring premium playing conditions.
“In addition to precise irrigation management, the SATGOLF system also allows for resource optimisation and generates public value by monitoring climate change and water stress on the island. By combining innovation with environmental stewardship, we’re not only improving course conditioning, but we’re also building a more resilient, climate-conscious golf destination.
“As the only golf resort in Mallorca with GEO Certified status across all three of our championship courses, our goal is to lead by example and demonstrate how technology can help golf align with global sustainability targets.”
For more information on SATGOLF, visit https://arabellagolfmallorca.com/en/satgolf/