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A new era of satellite imaging Currently, four of the six planned WorldView Legion satellites are operational. The first pair, launched in May 2024 , entered sun-synchronous orbits alongside Maxar’s existing satellites. These orbits ensure consistent daily imaging by circling Earth’s poles, a configuration ideal for capturing regular, detailed observations at fixed times each day. The second pair, launched in August 2024 , introduced a cutting-edge mid-inclination orbital strategy .

The scale of modern slavery and the role of technology Modern slavery spans continents, industries, and economic classes, encompassing forced labor, debt bondage, and human trafficking. Satellite imagery combined with AI algorithms is revolutionizing efforts to: Identify forced labor sites in remote areas. Map patterns of exploitation. Provide actionable data to authorities and NGOs.

What is temporal resolution in satellite remote sensing? Temporal resolution refers to how frequently a satellite revisits and images the same area. This frequency, known as the " revisit rate ", is expressed in days or hours, depending on the satellite system. High temporal resolution means a satellite revisits a location frequently, sometimes daily or multiple times per day. Low temporal resolution indicates longer intervals between revisits, often weeks or months.

The Beached Plastic Debris Index (BPDI): A revolutionary approach to detection Researchers from RMIT University in Australia have introduced a novel tool - the Beached Plastic Debris Index (BPDI) - to address this global issue. BPDI uses advanced satellite technology to identify plastic waste based on unique light patterns. By focusing on the shortwave infrared (SWIR) spectrum, BPDI differentiates plastic debris from natural elements, improving detection accuracy on crowded coastlines.

Asbestos roofs, once a symbol of affordable and durable housing, have become a pressing public health issue worldwide. Today, scientists and policymakers are harnessing advanced satellite technology to identify and monitor these hazardous materials without setting foot on a single roof.

Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO): optimal for environmental monitoring Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) is a type of polar orbit where the satellite passes over the same spot on Earth at the same local solar time every day . This orbit typically has an altitude of 600 to 800 km and an inclination of 96 to 105 degrees. The satellite's path shifts slightly each day due to Earth’s rotation, allowing it to observe the entire planet over time.

What is hyperspectral satellite earth observation (EO)? Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a technique that divides the electromagnetic spectrum into many contiguous, narrow spectral bands. Unlike traditional optical imagers, which capture light in the red, green, and blue (RGB) bands, or even multispectral sensors that capture data in up to 36 broad spectral bands, hyperspectral sensors capture data in hundreds of narrow bands.

The role of satellite imagery in conflict zones Satellite imagery has proven crucial in assessing the scope of destruction in Gaza. Through the use of high-resolution Earth Observation technology, experts have been able to track and analyze damage across large areas, providing an accurate and unbiased perspective.

Maxar’s operational satellites Maxar operates a fleet of high-performance satellites that deliver imagery essential for intelligence, mapping, and monitoring applications worldwide. Here are the key operational satellites: WorldView-1 (Launched 2007) Capabilities : High-resolution panchromatic imagery Resolution: 50 cm panchromatic WorldView-2 (Launched 2009) Capabilities: High-resolution panchromatic and multispectral imagery Resolution: 46 cm panchromatic, 1.