Satellite Imaging

Satellites are machines that orbit Earth in space. Many of them have powerful cameras that take pictures of our planet. These pictures help scientists study weather, forests, cities, and oceans. Satellite imaging lets us see Earth in ways we never could from the ground.

How Satellite Imaging Works

Satellites orbit high above Earth and take pictures as they pass over different areas. Some satellites take pictures using regular light, just like a camera. Others use special sensors that can see heat or radar signals. These images are sent back to Earth where scientists study them on computers.

What We Can See

Satellite images show many things. Scientists use them to watch hurricanes and track wildfires. They can see how forests are shrinking or how cities are growing. Farmers use satellite pictures to check on their crops. Satellite imaging helps us take care of our planet by showing us what is changing.

Fun Facts

• Some satellites can take pictures sharp enough to see a car on the ground from space.
• The first satellite photo of Earth was taken in 1959 by Explorer 6.
• Weather satellites take a new picture of the whole Earth every 15 minutes.

Did You Know?

Google Earth uses millions of satellite images stitched together to let you explore almost any place on the planet from your computer.