Abstract :
Potential developments are considered for commercial applications of environmental remote sensing from space. The key areas affecting the possible growth of commercial markets that apply the sciences of meteorology, oceanography, and hydrology are discussed and projections made for 1985-2000. These areas include technology developments, markets, fiscal issues, political/legal/regulatory issues, and others. The growth will not be primarily limited by technology, but important uncertainties exist in the fiscal, political, and market development areas. With proper definition of government and commercial roles, both sectors can continue to maintain U. S. leadership in this area.
