On 26 December 2004, the sprang into action to acquire imagery for French disaster relief teams. CNES is coordinating SPOT satellite tasking and generation of satellite data products with the SERTIT* regional image processing and remote sensing department in Strasbourg.
Such satellite imagery is a vital tool for emergency response teams and for keeping track of reconstruction work. The images highlight affected areas, making it easier to quickly target Red Cross helicopters to provide first aid and food.


The images clearly show which areas escaped the tsunami, where camps can be set up for homeless survivors. Satellite data will also be used in the future to draw up a new city zoning plan.


Violine aeras correspond to the zones which have been devastated by tsunami.
* Service régional de traitement d’image en télédétection
More about...
International Charter on Space and Major disasters website
(the file has been published before the tsunami en Asia)