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Satellites and remote-sensing technologies are revolutionizing how we observe and understand our planet. This glossary breaks down essential terms - from NDVI and SAR to LEO orbits and Sentinel satellites-making it easier to navigate the world of Earth observation, geospatial analysis, and AI-powered mapping.

Background: The Conflict Behind the Al-Fashir Massacre The massacre in Al-Fashir did not happen in isolation. It is part of a broader civil conflict that erupted in April 2023, when tensions between Sudan’s two most powerful military factions - the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) , led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) , commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (“Hemedti”) - escalated into full-scale war.

Satellite imagery has transformed how we see and understand our planet. This beginner’s guide explains what satellite imagery is, how it works, and why it’s essential for modern mapping, environmental monitoring, and decision-making.

What is Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT)? But what exactly is GEOINT , and what are its capabilities and limits in today’s data-driven world? In simple terms, GEOINT (Geospatial Intelligence) refers to the collection, processing, analysis and visualization of data linked to specific geographic locations. It helps describe and assess both natural features and human activities on Earth. Originally rooted in the military domain and defined in U.S.

What Is Aerial Photography? Aerial photography involves taking images of the Earth’s surface from aircraft, drones, or other flying platforms. These photos are captured using high-resolution cameras or sensors, usually from a few hundred meters to several kilometers above the ground. Because aerial images are taken from lower altitudes than satellites, they capture much finer detail - you can see individual buildings, vehicles, and even small terrain features.

The European Space Agency has released the first data from the Sentinel-4 satellite - a new “cosmic air quality guardian” monitoring key pollutants like NO2, SO2, and ozone across Europe and North Africa. The mission marks a major step forward in real-time environmental monitoring and public health protection.

Vantor, formerly Maxar Intelligence, marks a new era in satellite Earth Observation with its AI-powered Tensorglobe platform. By delivering real-time geospatial intelligence and advanced analytics, Vantor redefines the industry, moving beyond imagery to actionable insights for defense, commercial, and global applications.

Why Dive into Historical Satellite Archives? Satellite imagery isn't just for the present; it's a time machine for landscapes. OnGeo Intelligence draws from vast global archives, including commercial and open-source constellations like Sentinel-2, to deliver cloud-free scenes from years past. Whether you're a farmer assessing crop history, an urban planner mapping development, or an environmentalist studying deforestation, these reports help you visualize "before and after" scenarios.

Europe is preparing to launch Sentinel-1D aboard Ariane 6 on November 4, 2025 — a next-generation radar satellite ensuring the continuity of Copernicus Earth observation data and advancing Europe’s autonomous access to space.