Satellite imagery at work Environment
Last updated:18 June 2024
Satellites empower environmental science
When the first joint NASA/United States Geological Survey Landsat satellite was launched in 1972, more than half the Earth had yet to be accurately mapped. The data the satellite provided led to a re-mapping of Antarctica, the first global map of the world’s glaciers, and a new understanding of the position of the Amazon. Landsat demonstrated the power of remote sensing data to reveal the realities of our planet.
Today, satellite imagery continues to uncover new knowledge about our lands and waters, and Australian scientists, conservationists and environmental managers are proving natural leaders in the clever application of Earth observations.
Our data can support research into changes in canopy cover, wetlands ecosystems, coastal environments, biodiversity, and the impacts of sea level rise and climate change.
Got a project that needs a big picture?
Mangroves on the move
Thirty years of Landsat data maps the nationwide movement and migration of Australia’s mangrove forests.
Putting better eyes on our wetlands
Digital Earth Australia (DEA) brings together four leaders whose work with satellite data is providing new perspectives on our precious wetlands.
Related information
DEA Landsat 9 Collection 3 Analysis Ready Data now available
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Meet Norman Mueller: Earth observation scientist
Over the two decades he's worked in remote sensing, Norman has seen Earth observations go from on-request DVD mailouts to distributed, instant big data and time series analysis.
Mountain, Field, Reef: Mapping the Jaragun Wetlands Project
DEA Cal/Val scientists deploy drones in Far North Queensland to construct an accurate topographical map of an artificial wetlands terrain while exchanging knowledge with the Wanjuri people.
Meet Belle Tissott: Land Cover creative
Belle creates amazing artwork in the process of doing her job. She gets a kick out of it every time.
Mangroves on the move
Thirty years of Landsat data maps the nationwide movement and migration of Australia’s mangrove forests.
Uncovering habitat change in Australia’s north
Digital Earth Australia data is supporting studies into threatened and migratory species.
Meet Bex Dunn: wetlands explorer
This Earth observation scientist is diving deep into satellite data to better understand Australia’s wetlands.
Locking our eyes on our wetlands
Satellite data is providing new perspectives on wetlands, say these leaders.
We’re helping map the Reef
DEA satellite data helps reveal the Great Barrier Reef’s sea floor in never-before-seen detail.
Satellites for sustainable development
Mapping Australia’s progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
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