Satellite Imaging Technology

With the wave of 3D maps that have quickly become part of standard programs and devices that are used nearly every day, the technology used to power these maps is often taken for granted. However, the images that are seen on Google Earth and various other mapping services come all the way from outer space and the satellites that are used to capture them. With this new technology, maps of the earth are becoming more detailed and precise. As the satellite imaging technology gets better, users of 3D maps can expect that the resolution of images will reach an all time high.

The first satellite imaging techniques started in 1946 when an American satellite was able to broadcast images back to the earth after being launched. Of course, the pictures were quite rudimentary, but the scientists were able to see satellite images of various planets and other space formations. As the satellite imaging technology has become more frequently used, the functions have changed from purely scientific to many other concerns. In addition to their role in 3D maps that can be accessed by anyone, the satellite images of the world are also used for geology studies, conservation, planning purposes and even for warfare and intelligence.

Although the images on Google Earth and other 3D maps are accessible to everyone, they are not updated in real time. Instead, they are fixed images that are updated from time to time. The resolution of the satellite images of cities and areas in the world can be of a wide range of quality. Popular urban locations have the best satellite imaging with detailed images. On the other hand, more rural or wasteland areas have very little coverage, making it impossible for a person to zoom in on the 3D maps to a close level.