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Download Historical Satellite Data with USGS EarthExplorer

  • Writer: Anvita Shrivastava
    Anvita Shrivastava
  • May 22
  • 2 min read

Are you seeking historical satellite imagery or other GIS data for research, environmental monitoring, or GIS projects? The USGS EarthExplorer is one of the most reliable and comprehensive platforms for downloading satellite data or other data sets for free.


What Is USGS EarthExplorer?


USGS EarthExplorer is an online tool provided by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) that allows users to search, preview, and download satellite imagery and other Earth observation data. It provides access to a vast archive of historical and current

datasets from various missions such as:



Download Historical Satellite Data with USGS EarthExplorer
Download Historical Satellite Data with USGS EarthExplorer

Why Use EarthExplorer for Historical Satellite Data?


There are many reasons why researchers, students, and professionals prefer EarthExplorer:


  • Free Access: Most datasets are available at no cost.

  • Long-Term Archive: Access imagery from as early as the 1970s.

  • User-Friendly Interface: Simple tools for filtering and downloading data.

  • Reliable Source: Data hosted and verified by a U.S. government agency.


Step-by-Step: How to Download Historical Satellite Data


1. Visit the USGS EarthExplorer Website



2. Create a Free USGS Account


To download data, you must register for a free account. This unlocks full access to the available datasets.


3. Define Your Area of Interest (AOI)


You can select an area by:


  • Typing in a location

  • Using coordinates

  • Drawing a polygon or rectangle on the map


4. Set Your Date Range


To find historical data, input your desired date range. For example, set a range like 01/01/1984 to 12/31/2000 to access older Landsat imagery.


5. Choose Your Data Sets


Some popular options include:


  • Landsat Legacy Collections

  • Sentinel-2

  • MODIS Terra/Aqua

  • ASTER Global DEM


Each dataset includes metadata, cloud cover info, and download formats.


6. Filter Results & Download


You can sort results by:


  • Cloud cover percentage

  • Acquisition date

  • Sensor type


Click the download icon next to the desired image to get your data in formats like GeoTIFF, JPEG, or HDF.


Tips for Better Results


  • Use low cloud cover filters for clearer images.

  • Explore pre-processed datasets like Landsat Surface Reflectance for ready-to-use data.

  • Use batch download tools like the USGS Download Manager for large volumes.


Applications of Historical Satellite Data


  • Environmental Change Detection

  • Urban Expansion Analysis

  • Agricultural Monitoring

  • Climate Change Studies

  • Disaster Impact Assessment


Historical satellite imagery is vital for understanding changes in land use, vegetation, water bodies, and urban sprawl over time.


The USGS EarthExplorer is a powerful tool for anyone needing historical satellite data. Whether you're working on an academic paper, a GIS project, or a business solution, the data you need could be just a few clicks away. With a little exploration, you'll unlock decades' worth of valuable Earth observation data — all for free.


For more information or any questions regarding Satellite Data, please don't hesitate to contact us at


USA (HQ): (720) 702–4849



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