Remote Sensing: The Next 50 Years

Remote sensing is viewed as a complete system for observing and managing man's environment on Earth. The sensing portion of the system consists of space, air, and ground observing platforms, sensors, communications, computational capabilities and interpretation, and recognition algorithms. The data are put to use using environmental models, geographic information systems, and management models. Progress and potentials in each of these system elements are reviewed and projected. Existing and potential uses are sketched and certain institutional, diplomatic, and national security issues are identified. Some underlying reasons for belief in continued progress are mentioned and the need for certain crucial choices in the future stated which will determine which of a number of possible futures will be realized.