Satellite imagery plays a crucial role in our modern world, offering valuable insights into Earth’s landscapes and changes over time. When it comes to the accessibility of these images, the question of whether they fall under the public domain is important for researchers, policymakers, and the general public alike.
In the United States, many satellite images provided by Federal civil agencies are indeed public domain. Examples include the widely used Landsat and ASTER images. These resources are made freely available for anyone to access, download, and use for various purposes, from scientific research to urban planning. Additionally, aerial images from specific areas designated as the HDDS “Baseline” and post-event aerial images from Federal or State agency partners are often classified as public domain.
The availability of these images in the public domain is a boon for various fields. Researchers can utilize this data to study environmental changes, monitor natural disasters, and track urban development. For policymakers, having access to public domain satellite imagery aids in decision-making processes related to land use, disaster response, and infrastructure planning. Furthermore, the public benefits by being able to explore and learn from these images, fostering a greater understanding of our planet’s dynamic landscapes.
(Response: Yes, most satellite images supplied by U.S. Federal civil agencies, such as Landsat and ASTER, are public domain. Additionally, aerial images from designated areas and post-event aerial images from Federal or State agency partners are often in the public domain as well.)