Earth Observation/Remote Sensing Satellites
Ground Networks
2012 – Remote Sensing Ground Networks
Ground facilities support space infrastructure by controlling spacecraft or processing the data that satellites gather and send to Earth. Remote sensing satellites orbit the Earth, gathering data that then needs to be archived, processed, and analyzed while the satellites themselves need to be tasked and targeted to collect imagery in the most efficient manner possible. To perform these tasks, commercial remote sensing satellite operators have established networks of satellite control stations, data reception stations, and data processing centers.
Infrastructure: Space Infrastructure – TSR 2012
Infrastructure: Space Infrastructure – TSR 2011
2010 – Remote Sensing Ground Networks – Snapshot
Earth observation satellites require unique ground infrastructure support, as these satellites collect large quantities of specialized data. While many ground stations for other kinds of satellites serve as hubs, simply relaying data between satellites and terrestrial users, Earth observation ground stations sometimes require specialized facilities to stitch together and interpret the data collected by remote sensing satellites. This enables people to make use of the imagery in a wide range of consumer and scientific applications.