MORE INFORMATION AND LESS DATA FROM SPACE.

The author explains that higher resolution, more spectral bands, and greater frequency of coverage are desires of most users of remote sensor data. However, considering only current programs like the Earth Resources Technology Satellite, environmental satellites, and aircraft-based sensor systems, the volume of data offers a substantial processing problem to NASA. Potential data users are experiencing similar difficulties. Increased facilities and manpower may not be the best solution. Current analyses are revealing how much of the data is redundant. If the important information were extracted from the large volume of data, it would be possible simultaneously to reduce the volume and permit desired improvements in resolution or frequency of observation. Techniques such as data compression, statistical sampling, and mixed-highs multispectral sensing can reduce the data greatly to allow one to ″get at the information″ . Data volume reduction, problems of utilization, and usefulness are discussed for each technique. Experimental results and current programs are presented. Recommendations are made for specific programs.