As of January 2024, commercial satellite companies such as Maxar Technologies, Planet Labs, 21st Century Aerospace Technology, and Airbus Defense and Space offer the highest-resolution satellite imagery available to the public. These companies offer satellite imagery with resolutions as high as 30 centimeters (11.8 inches) per pixel, which means that objects as small as 30 centimeters on the ground can be identified from the images.
Colorado-based startup Albedo plans to launch satellites in 2025 that will capture high-quality optical and thermal long-wave infrared imagery with resolutions of 10 cm and 2 meters, respectively.
It is important to note that access to these high-resolution images may be restricted due to national security concerns or other legal reasons. Additionally, the availability of high-resolution satellite imagery is constantly evolving as new satellites are launched and new technologies are developed, so it is possible that higher-resolution imagery may become available in the future.
Commercial Vs Government
Yes, governments around the world have access to high-resolution satellite imagery, including some of the highest-resolution imagery available. Governments may own or operate their own satellites, or they may purchase imagery from commercial satellite companies. We do not have access to classified or sensitive information. However, it is widely believed that some government agencies and military organizations have access to high-resolution satellite imagery with resolutions much higher than what is available to the public. The exact resolution of such satellite imagery is not publicly disclosed, but it is believed to be as high as a few centimeters per pixel or even better. Such high-resolution imagery is typically classified and used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance purposes.
It is important to note that the exact capabilities and limitations of government access to high-resolution satellite imagery are not publicly known and can vary from country to country.
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