Operations

By National Land Imaging Program

The U.S. Geological Survey’s National Land Imaging Program manages a range of operational activities that ensure the consistent acquisition, delivery, and application of Earth observation data. These efforts support Landsat satellite operations, coordinate remote sensing capabilities across federal and international partners, and provide rapid access to imagery during disasters and emergencies.

Landsat Missions

Since 1972, Landsat satellites have continuously acquired images of the Earth’s land surface, providing uninterrupted data to help land managers and policymakers make informed decisions about natural resources and the environment. The Landsat program is jointly managed by the USGS and NASA.

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RCA-EO

Requirements, Capabilities, and Analysis for Earth Observations (RCA-EO) evaluates satellite capabilities to identify effective ways to address civil and societal challenges, helping land managers and policymakers make informed decisions about natural resources and the environment.

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NUSO

a man in dark green USGS gear kneels next to a large black drone in the middle of a road, cones and trees in the background

The National Uncrewed Systems Office (NUSO) leads the research activities needed to make Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) data collection an efficient, safe, and cost-effective remote sensing tool for Department of the Interior and USGS scientists.

International Charter

The International Charter members manage a large constellation of Earth-observing satellites that can respond quickly when called upon by emergency management authorities. Satellite data are made available at no cost, as the International Charter operates on a voluntary basis with no exchange of funds. The images from International Charter-managed satellites can help emergency managers respond to a variety of natural and technological disasters worldwide. Learn more at the International Charter webpage.

National Civil Applications Center

The National Civil Applications Center (NCAC) uses remote sensing data from intelligence and defense sources to support public safety and environmental research. It provides imagery to USGS scientists and other civilian federal agencies. These data come from U.S. National Imagery Systems (USNIS) and unclassified commercial satellite sources acquired by the Department of Defense. Read the fact sheet.