Earth Observation User Case: Using Landsat to Connect Space to Village

Social scientists at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Fort Collins Science Center – in collaboration with the USGS National Land Imaging Program – conduct Earth observation user case studies using qualitative research methods. Using standard scientific methods, they are better able to understand the variety of Earth observation users, including how they use and value Earth observation data.

This graphic illustration guides you through an Earth observation user case study and provides the in-depth user experience of Africa Ixmucane Flores Anderson – one example of an Earth observation user. Africa is a remote sensing scientist at the University of Alabama Huntsville and a Research Scientist and the Amazonia lead at SERVIR, a joint venture between NASA and the U.S. Agency for International Development providing satellite-based Earth monitoring, imaging and mapping data, geospatial information, predictive models and science applications to help improve environmental decision-making among developing nations.

Africa was born in Guatemala and while growing up, witnessed the environmental degradation of the natural landscape in her hometown and country. Africa now uses Landsat to monitor harmful algal blooms and advocate for environmental conservation around the world. Landsat is a joint USGS/NASA Program that provides the longest continuous space-based record of Earth’s land surface. Every day, Landsat satellites provide essential information to help land managers and policy makers make decisions about resources and the environment.