U.S.-Australia Landsat Next partnership
Page last updated:4 December 2024
Australia is a partner that is uniquely positioned to play a central role in the Landsat Next satellite program planned for launch in 2031. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the U.S.-Australia Landsat Next Partnership, building on over half a century of cooperation in Earth observation with the United States Geological Survey.
Since its first mission launch in 1972, Landsat has been crucial for Australia, providing a space-based record of Earth’s land surface.
In this new phase, Geoscience Australia will secure free, streamlined, prioritised, and open access to Earth observation data for Australian governments, businesses, researchers, and communities. Additionally, Geoscience Australia will provide critical ground station infrastructure and advanced data processing and analytics capabilities.
This vital information will support improved decision-making for the benefit of all Australians and unlock new opportunities for science and innovation.
Strengthening Earth observation capabilities
Landsat Next will offer higher resolution land imaging data, more frequently, and with greater fidelity than ever before.
The enhanced spatial and temporal resolution of the 26-band “superspectral” Landsat Next constellation will enable new applications and methods for mapping and monitoring our environment.
Geoscience Australia will work with the United States Geological Survey on new science, technology platforms and analytics techniques to capitalise on the step-change in capability.
In return for free and open access to Earth observation data from the US Landsat satellites, Australia will contribute:
- Essential ground station support for the current Landsat satellites and Landsat Next via an upgraded Alice Springs Ground Station capability.
- Land imaging data processing, quality assurance and distribution support covering one third of the Earth.
- New science and technology to help users take full advantage of Landsat Next’s enhanced capabilities.
Related information
Australia joins Landsat Next satellite program
Australia has formally joined the United States-led Landsat Next satellite program, cementing an enduring partnership and building on nearly half a century of collaboration in satellite land imaging.
40 years of Landsat in Australia
Geoscience Australia’s Alice Springs satellite ground station hosts two 9 metre antennas, a 2.4-metre antenna, and associated infrastructure.
Capabilities
An overview of Geoscience Australia's current Earth observation from space capabilities and long term priorities.