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The AAPG/Datapages Combined Publications Database
Houston Geological Society Bulletin
Abstract
Abstract: Geology and the Environment
as Seen from Low Earth Orbit
By
Astronauts aboard each mission of the Space Shuttle record some 2,000 hand-held 70 mm and 4 inch x 5 inch format still-camera photographs of terrestrial, marine, and atmospheric phenomena. Photographs are taken from flight altitudes of 110 to 330 nautical miles depending upon specific primary payload mission profiles. Variable altitude, coupled with the flexibility to photograph from nadir to Earth limb perspective using a variety of camera lenses and film types, has provided an extensive library of dramatic Earth views. These beautiful photographs, many with ground resolution to less than 10 meters, are public-domain data available to private citizens at little more than the cost to produce a 35 mm slide or color print.
This presentation offers a series of slides to illustrate
the dramatic perspective of Earth afforded our astronauts
as they orbit in the Space Shuttle. Views include some of the
classic geological features on the Earth's surface, immense
tropical storms, colorful oceanographic features, and
documentation of subjects of environmental concern.
Fundamentals
of orbital mechanics and Shuttle crew
activities will also be discussed to provide an understanding
of the geographic distribution of photo coverage and the
frequency of site revisit afforded by the Space Shuttle.
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