As of February 2024, several satellite imagery providers offer high-resolution imagery with a spatial resolution of 30 centimeters and it is possible that these alternatives could serve as a superior option to Google, offering more up-to-date information compared to Google Earth Pro or Google Maps. It's important to note that the availability of imagery may change over time, so it's advisable to check for the latest available data for your area of interest (AOI).
Here are a few providers known for high-resolution satellite imagery:
Maxar operates the WorldView satellites and is known for providing very high-resolution imagery, including 30 cm resolution. Their imagery is widely used in various applications, including defense, agriculture, and urban planning.
Airbus operates the Pleiades satellites, which offer very high-resolution optical imagery, including 30 cm resolution. These satellites are capable of capturing detailed images for various applications.
21AT is an expert company that provides specialized products and services in the field of advanced remote sensing imagery. One of their notable offerings is the TripleSat Constellation, which is composed of three high-resolution satellites. These satellites operate on the same sun-synchronous orbit, with a time gap of 33 minutes between each satellite. Another significant project under the ownership and operation of Twenty-First Century Aerospace Technology Co., Ltd (21AT) is BJ-3. This project consists of a duo of optical Earth observation satellites. BJ-3A was launched on 11 June 2021, while BJ-3B was launched on 24 August 2022. These satellites can provide images with a resolution as low as 30 cm.
While Planet Labs primarily focuses on smaller satellites, their constellation of Dove satellites can capture imagery at sub-meter resolution, making them suitable for various applications that require high-detail information.
KOMPSAT-3 and KOMPSAT-3A, operated by the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, provide high-resolution satellite imagery with a spatial resolution of up to 38 centimeters.
BlackSky is known for its constellation of small satellites that provide high-resolution imagery for monitoring and analysis. The spatial resolution can be as high as 50 cm.
Aerial imagery serves as a valuable alternative to satellite imagery for various applications. Aerial imagery is captured from aircraft flying at lower altitudes, offering advantages such as a very high spatial resolution and the ability to customize data collection for specific projects.
Here are some of the common sources and applications of aerial imagery:
Traditional aerial photography involves capturing images using cameras mounted on airplanes or helicopters. These images can have very high spatial resolution, providing detailed views of the Earth's surface. Aerial photography is often used in urban planning, agriculture, forestry, and environmental monitoring.
UAVs equipped with cameras or sensors can capture high-resolution aerial imagery. Drones are versatile and can be deployed for various purposes, including agricultural monitoring, infrastructure inspection, disaster response, and mapping of small or hard-to-reach areas.
LiDAR systems mounted on aircraft can capture detailed three-dimensional information about the Earth's surface. This technology is useful for terrain mapping, forestry analysis, and infrastructure planning.
For more information about high-resolution satellite imagery, aerial imagery, or drone imagery which is better and up-to-date than Google Earth Pro or Google Maps, please feel free to reach us at:
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