One of the biggest Earth observation conferences in the world got off to a flying start today as thousands of scientists from around the world gathered in the Czech Republic to present their latest findings on our changing planet.

Reflecting the increasing relevance that Earth observation plays in advancing our understanding of our home and in everyday applications, ESA's fifth Living Planet Symposium has drawn more than 3300 participants - almost double that of the previous event in 2013.

The major gathering was opened by the Prime Minister of the Czech Republic, Bohuslav Sobotka, who noted how important space activities are to the future of the EU and its competitiveness.

Participants were welcomed by ESA Director General Jan Woerner, who began by talking about sustainable development goals such as poverty, hunger, clean water and energy.