In the modern era, the use of satellite imaging has been a vital asset to the practice of geospatial intelligence. During the mid nineteenth century, the space race was not only about getting the first person to space and later the moon, but was to establish a stronghold of satellites.
The different purposes of satellites depend on the intended use.
· Low Earth orbit is utilized for imaging
· Middle Earth orbit is utilized for GPS
· Geosynchronous equatorial orbit keeps the satellite at the same position over Earth
· High Elliptical orbit is effective for use over the north and south poles and is utilized for satellite communication
The use of visible imagine has become essential to effective battlefield strategic planning. In World War Two, the opposing forces competed with each other to establish a superior form of aerial imaging. The German armies had a superior camera than allied forces and allowed an advantage to be established. Visual imaging has evolved from the use of manned aircraft to unmanned aerial vehicles and even satellite imaging. Later, the implementation of spectral imaging has allowed for the advanced imaging capabilities to see a specific target. Different types of imaging allow for different targets to be monitored and viewed.