The U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Department of Defense, and the U.S. Intelligence Community—100 years of mapping and remote sensing collaboration, 1879–1979

Introduction

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)—a Federal civilian agency—and U.S. military and intelligence agencies collaborate on mapping and remote sensing and have since the establishment of the USGS. The organizations exchange data and information and share technology to further their respective missions in service to the American people. Often referred to as examples of “good government” or “whole of government,” the collaboration avoids costly duplication and maximizes time and effort for the government sectors. Collaboration between these sectors started with the original mapping of the United States and evolved to include remote sensing after the advent of aerial photography and satellite imagery.