Weekly GEOINT Community News

Planet Introduces Rapid Response Team

Planet launched a new digital volunteer program in partnership with the Digital Humanitarian Network to help improve humanitarian response. After a major disaster hits, members of the Rapid Response Team can provide the latest satellite images available and/or geospatial analysis directly to field-based aid organizations.

MDA to Lead Hyperspectral Imaging Research

MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (MDA) signed a five-year contract with Defence Research and Development Canada, an agency of Canada’s Department of National Defence. MDA will lead a team of five Canadian organizations with expertise in hyperspectral imaging and data analysis. This initiative will help develop and validate airborne and ground-based hyperspectral imaging capabilities in ultraviolet, visible near-infrared, and low-wave infrared spectral ranges.

NORsat-1 and 2 Launch

The Norwegian Space Centre announced critical antennas and probes on the NORsat-1 and NORsat-2 microsatellites launched July 14. NORsat-2 carried a large Yagi antenna that will provide first-of-its-kind VHF data exchange from space. Canada’s Space Flight Laboratory built the two microsatellites for maritime traffic monitoring, communications, and science applications on behalf of the Norwegian Space Centre.

Peer Intel

President Trump recently nominated retired Vice Adm. Joseph Kernan to be Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence. Kernan currently serves as the senior vice president of corporate development for SAP National Security Services.

Photo Credit: Planet