Global structures for remote sensing satellites: Toward the year 2010

This thesis explores existing and prospective international structures for remote sensing satellites, with a view toward a permanent, international organization. Chapters address: arguments for an international remote sensing satellite organization; models for an international remote sensing satellite structure; and the U.S. remote sensing structure and policy. The thesis also presents a Delphi study, which investigates expert opinion on four factors of international remote sensing satellite frameworks: (1) structure, (2) barriers to organizations, (3) national security, and (4) international cooperation in space. Conclusions from the Delphi show support for multiple frameworks for remote sensing satellites, especially one for commercial and one for scientific activities. Results also indicate that international structures for remote sensing satellites will change. However, due to post-Cold War global security adjustments, reductions in national space budgets, increased attention to the environment, and support for both commercial and cooperative international remote sensing satellite activities, the direction of change remains uncertain.