Teaching and Conducting scientific research: An experience in joint USA-Russia-Bulgaria-Holland-Ukraine international collaboration between . . .

The paper discusses the first steps in collaboration between the above institutions and gives examples of some accomplishments. These include analysis of microwave and optical channel data collected from the Russian space complex "Priroda-MIR", utilization of portable microwave radiometers in field-based experiment at Alabama A&M University, as well as field-based experiment using an unmanned helicopter as well as the design and manufacturing of a portable optical spectrometer. A three channel scanning microwave radiometer has also been developed for application in the Netherlands and Ukraine for dyke condition inspection and detection of over moistened areas