The Role of Maxar Imagery in Environmental Monitoring and Climate Change
As the impacts of climate change accelerate, access to reliable, high-resolution Earth observation data has become essential. From shrinking glaciers to wildfire outbreaks, the world needs accurate information to track environmental change and take action. That’s where Maxar satellite imagery comes in.
With unmatched detail and global reach, Maxar imagery provides a powerful lens through which governments, scientists, and businesses can monitor our planet.
Why Maxar Satellite Imagery Matters
Maxar satellites capture some of the highest-resolution commercial images available, with detail down to 30 cm. This clarity allows decision-makers to spot small-scale environmental changes that can have global consequences. Unlike sporadic surveys or on-the-ground data collection, Maxar imagery offers consistent coverage across remote, inaccessible, or politically sensitive regions.
The result is a reliable stream of data that supports everything from climate research to disaster management.
Supporting Disaster Preparedness
Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe. Maxar satellite imagery helps communities prepare for and respond to these crises with speed and precision.
In partnership with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), Maxar developed a digital twin and flood simulation model for Ghana. These ultra-high-resolution 3D models allowed decision-makers to visualise the real-time impacts of rising sea levels and flash flooding, improving disaster planning and resilience.
Maxar also has a long heritage in disaster response through its Open Data program, which provides free satellite imagery during major crises. This initiative has accelerated recovery efforts in recent floods across Nigeria, South Africa, and Myanmar, giving frontline teams critical insights when every second counts.
Strengthening Food Security and Humanitarian Efforts
Climate change threatens global food systems, and vulnerable nations are often hit the hardest. In Somalia, Maxar is working with the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to monitor crops and infrastructure using 15 cm-resolution Maxar satellite imagery. By combining advanced analytics with oblique imaging, agricultural monitoring becomes more precise, helping agencies respond to food insecurity before it escalates.
Migration is another pressing humanitarian challenge. In collaboration with EUSI and the Copernicus program, Maxar has supported efforts to track migration patterns into Europe. By combining Maxar imagery with cell phone data, historical archives, and AI-powered vehicle detection models, analysts can identify trafficking routes, checkpoints, and operational activity. This intelligence helps stop illicit activity and save lives.
Driving Environmental Resilience
Beyond disaster and humanitarian aid, Maxar satellites are reshaping environmental monitoring. Their change detection capabilities make it possible to measure the effects of climate change in near real time.
For example, Maxar worked with the British Antarctic Survey to count whale calves from space. This data helps scientists monitor population recovery and understand the impact of ship strikes, pollution, and warming seas.
Turn Complex Data into Business-Ready Solutions
At The Spatial Distillery, we provide the highest quality spatial data and location intelligence solutions, backed by expert advice and outstanding service. We distil the complex world of geospatial technology into clear, business-ready tools that empower you to focus on what matters most: your core mission.
Partner with us today and see how Maxar satellite imagery and advanced analytics can deliver clarity, confidence, and smarter decisions to your business.
