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Frequently Asked Questions
About NOAA Satellites
and NOAA Satellite Pictures and Data
Chicago, Illinois as observed from a NOAA polar orbiting satellite.
NOAA satellites are not designed
to provide highly detailed, "reconnaissance" satellite imagery. This is
available from commercial
satellites, and must be purchased through commercial suppliers.
FAQ Answers
1) How can I get satellite pictures of my house, my town, or some area so I can see
buildings, streets, and similar details?
NOAA cannot provide these pictures. The NOAA satellites cannot provide this detail. These
satellites were designed for observing weather systems and similar large features. The
smallest distance the NOAA satellites can resolve is 1 kilometer (a little more than 1/2
mile) under the best conditions. Very detailed satellite images usually must be obtained
from commercial sources, for a fee. These would include, but are not limited to Space Imaging, Orbimage,
SPOT Image, and others. Some very detailed satellite
images over the United States can be found on the Terra Server. [NOAA provides these
as examples of commercial sources. In following these links, you will leave the
NOAASIS web site. NOAA does not endorse these suppliers or the content of their sites.]
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Map | Contact Us Phone: 301-763-8051 Fax: 301-763-8131 US Department of Commerce - NOAA - NESDIS |
Our
Mailing Address: Satellite Services Division Direct Services Branch, E/SP2 5200 Auth Road Camp Springs, MD 20746 USA |