ARM constellation—Establishing a regional remote sensing asset

The ARM constellation has been described as fulfilling the need for regular high resolution data over Africa for resource management applications. The widespread use of high and medium resolution image data clearly demonstrates the urgent need for this kind of data in a timely manner over Africa. The user requirements of the ARM have evolved to include medium resolution imagery (<30m) and very high resolution imagery in addition to future needs identified in the form of SAR and thermal infrared image data sets. This paper explores the user requirements for satellite remote sensed data for Africa and describes one constellation solution that dramatically increases the amount of relevant remote sensed data for African priorities. Two different next generation remote sensing satellites viz. MWSat and MSMISat are considered as a baseline for the technical solution.