Remote sensor evaluation model

A format is presented that enables the specification of a sensor system configuration, given a set of knowledge requirements to be satisfied by an earth observation satellite. This format, in a modified form, may also be used to determine whether or not a knowledge requirement can be satisfied by existing sensors, and to indicate the need for developing new sensors. It can be applied to large sets of knowledge requirements, so that versatile, multipurpose earth observation sensor systems can be developed. Implementation of the model to a combination of Nimbus G&H and ERTS E&F missions is shown as a test of its viability. The findings are extensively tabulated, and they tend to support the method.