QuickBird

DigitalGlobe successfully launched its QuickBird satellite on the Boeing Delta II launch vehicle on October 18th, 2001. In December 2001, DigitalGlobe released the first QuickBird images.

Originally planned as a 1-meter resolution imaging system, plans were modified by DigitalGlobe to increase the resolution system by adjusting the orbit in which the satellite is flown. As a result, panchromatic resolution increased from 1 meter to 61 centimetres and multispectral resolution increased from 4 meters to 2.5 meters.

QuickBird's design enables it to operate properly at the lower altitude and the satellite carries enough fuel so that its mission life is not reduced.

The data will contribute to mapping, agricultural and urban planning, weather research and military surveillance.

Panchromatic Rome, St Peter's & Vatican City © Eurimage 2002	Pan-sharpened - Multi-spectral Barcelona, Olympic stadia © Eurimage 2002