Radarsat, status and development

Summary form only given, as follows. The operational status of Radarsat I will be presented, including some of the latest images obtained around the world. The operation of Radarsat I has produced excellent images and data which has been used to manage oil spills, floods, forestry and many other applications. Many countries are using Radarsat data to manage their resources because it is more reliable in time critical applications since it is not affected by cloud cover. Plans are well advanced to continue remote sensing using radar satellites and preparations to form a commercial entity using Canadian government support is well underway. Radarsat I1 will be required to replace Radarsat I early in the next century. The approach to this planning will be discussed.