An operational earth resources satellite system: The LANDSAT follow-on program

The LANDSATS 1 and 2 have demonstrated the role of remote sensing from satellite in research, development, and operational activities essential to the better management of our resources. Hundreds of agricultural, geological, hydrological, urban land use, and other investigations have raised the question of the development of an operational system providing continuous, timely data. The LANDSAT Follow-on Study addressed the economics, technological performance, and design of a system in transition from R and D to operations. Economic benefits were identified; and a complete system from sensors to the ultilization in forecasting crop production, oil and mineral exploration, and water resources management was designed.