Landsat’s Critical Role in Energy

Energy is a growing necessity for people worldwide. As the demand for energy grows, Landsat plays an important role in identifying new energy
sources and mitigating the human and environmental impact of energydevelopment.
Landsat is useful in the energy sector both because of its unparalleled decades-long record of Earth’s land and because of its ability to measure infrared and visible light. With more than 40 years of imagery, decision makers can monitor the environmental impact of mining and energy generation and track ecological recovery after operations end.
Landsat’s ability to measure infrared light allows farmers and decision makers to gauge the health of biofuel crops and natural vegetation near dams and mining sites. The infrared and visible measurements together help energy companies identify minerals on the surface when plants are sparse.