The Earth system comprises a multitude of processes that are intimately meshed through complex interactions. In times of accelerated global change, the understanding and quantification of these processes is of primary importance. Spaceborne remote sensing sensors are predestined to produce bio-geo information products on a global scale. The Helmholtz Alliance will therefore complement the high degree innovation in radar remote sensing technology, which have been successfully implemented with TanDEM-X, and will established a unique chain from satellite technology, mission operation to information extraction and integration into local, regional and global models. Thus, the research activities within the Helmholtz Alliance are dedicated to a specific Earth sphere.