The 4 Best Satellite Imagery Sources

There are several free resources available that provide excellent satellite imagery. In this article, we will explore four of the best sources for obtaining free satellite imagery.

These sources are perfect for students, geographers, and anyone eager to explore and understand the world as they provide a wealth of reliable information, visually engaging maps, and interactive tools that cater to diverse learning styles. 

1. Google Earth Pro

Google Earth Pro is a powerful tool that allows users to explore the Earth through high-quality satellite imagery. Unlike the web-based version, the desktop application offers numerous added features.

One of the standout features of Google Earth Pro is the ability to view historical imagery. You can scroll back in time to see how specific locations have changed. For instance, you can track the destruction of villages in Nigeria’s Borno State over the years by comparing satellite images from different periods.

How to view historical imagery in Google Earth Pro

1. Access Historical Imagery:
– Once you’re focused on the desired location, you can access historical imagery by clicking on the clock icon located in the toolbar. This icon represents “Show Historical Imagery.”

2. Use the Time Slider:
– After clicking the clock icon, a time slider will appear at the top left of your screen. You can drag the slider left and right to view the available imagery from different years.
– As you move the slider, the imagery will update to show how the location looked at different points in time.

3. Adjust Imagery Transparency:
– You can also adjust the transparency of the historical imagery in relation to the current view. This allows you to compare the old and new images directly, making it easier to identify changes over time.

4. Explore Specific Changes:
– Use the time slider to look for specific changes, such as urban development, landscape alterations, or environmental changes like deforestation or coastline shifts.

5. Save or Share Views:
– If you find a particularly interesting view or comparison, you can save the image by navigating to File > Save > Save Image. This allows you to share your findings or keep a record for future reference.

In addition to historical data, Google Earth Pro allows users to import various data layers, enhancing the analysis and understanding of geographic trends.

2. Sentinel Hub

Sentinel Hub and the EO browser is another excellent resource for satellite imagery. It offers access to multiple datasets, including those from the Sentinel satellite system, Landsat, and more.

While the clarity of Sentinel Hub imagery may not be as high as Google Earth, it compensates with extensive coverage. Users can obtain frequent satellite images, often updated every few days, which is particularly useful for monitoring environmental changes.

Moreover, Sentinel Hub allows users to manipulate the imagery, applying filters to visualize specific data such as vegetation or fire damage.

3. Zoom Earth

Zoom Earth provides a different approach by displaying real-time satellite imagery and weather data. It allows users to see cloud movements, storms, and other atmospheric conditions.

One of the unique features of Zoom Earth is its capability to display heat signatures, which can be beneficial for detecting wildfires or other sources of heat.

This platform is particularly useful for users needing detailed imagery in areas where Google Earth may not provide clear visuals.

4. World Imagery Wayback

The World Imagery Wayback tool offers a unique way to access historical satellite imagery. Users can compare images from different years using a handy toggle swipe function.

This feature is invaluable for analyzing changes over time in various regions, making it a great resource for researchers and professionals in GIS.

FAQ

What is the best source for high-resolution imagery?

Google Earth Pro typically offers the highest resolution imagery compared to other sources.

Can I use these resources for commercial purposes?

Each resource has its own usage policy; be sure to check their terms of service for commercial use guidelines.

How often is the imagery updated on these platforms?

The update frequency varies: Sentinel Hub provides updates every few days, while Google Earth Pro may have more sporadic updates depending on the area.

For more information on using these satellite imagery sources, consider visiting their respective websites:

• Google Earth
• Sentinel Playground | Sentinel Hub
• Zoom Earth | Live Weather Map & Hurricane Tracker
• World Imagery Wayback

These tools are not just for professionals; anyone interested in exploring the world can benefit from these resources. Happy exploring!