RADARSAT program

With the launch in 1995 of RADARSAT I, its first Earth observation spacecraft, Canada will start supplying timely synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data to users around the world. The RADARSAT SAR will operate at C-band and HH polarizations in a polar orbit, crossing the equator at dawn-dusk. It will offer to users options in the selection of swath size, resolution size, and incidence angle range of observation to suit a particular location and revisit and geophysical information needs. Works on the implementation of the RADARSAT system (spacecraft and ground segment), operation planning, and application and user developments are progressing well. The chosen distributor is making preparations to market RADARSAT data internationally. An announcement for applications demonstration and research opportunity is to be issued soon to the international user community. RADARSAT II, as the follow-on to RADARSAT I has been approved to ensure continuity of SAR data under the RADARSAT program for at least a ten year period