A Remote Sensing Roadmap for Developing Countries
- Paper number
IAC-06-B5.1.03
- Author
Prof. Sias Mostert, University of Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Year
2006
- Abstract
The cost/performance ratio of small satellites for remote sensing has improved to the level where operational remote sensing missions can be undertaken with micro-satellite technology.
Utilising very small satellites for operational remote sensing is important for developing nations as it enables the full benefit of having an independent access to space for remote sensing.
A number of missions currently launched and planned offers the potential of an operational remote sensing capability for the price of a small satellite program. The missions range from a less than 10 M pathfinder mission in South Africa to the 180M RapidEye program in Germany.
Access to space with a single satellite does not constitute a sustainable space program and a remote sensing roadmap is required that will form the basis of a sustainable space program, ultimately leading to the employment and utilisation of decision making information from a space resource.
The paper will review a number of current remote sensing missions and proceed with a remote sensing product roadmap that can form the basis of a sustainable space program in a developing country.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-B5.1.03.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.