Satellite surveillance is one of those technological
capabilities that we most often associate with the military
and with organizations like the CIA. What we do not think
about, however, is how satellite surveillance is available
to more than just the American government. Space is owned by
no one, and anyone who has the funds can launch a satellite.
Telecommunications companies, various governments, and media
corporations all have satellites. Additionally, it is
possible to make use of satellites using computers. In fact,
that is how satellite phones and GPS devices work. So, who
uses satellite surveillance? The answer: just about anyone.
Satellite surveillance can be used for a variety of
purposes. Most common now is relays to watch television or
to place phone calls. For the United States and Canada, it
actually provides a way to more effectively track and fight
fires. And it is possible to track powerful storms and other
natural events. And it is no surprise to most people that
pictures from satellites can be used by government agencies
to keep tabs on possible enemies. What many people do not
know is the pinpoint accuracy with which it is possible to
view an object about three feet in size.
So, who uses satellite surveillance? For the most part,
anyone with access to a satellite’s codes and information
and a computer can access the images from that satellite.
Television stations use them to show pictures of swirling
clouds that represent storms, NASA uses them to take
pictures of deep space, and governments and militaries use
them to spy on others, and quite possibly even on its own
citizens. Interestingly enough, regular U.S. law enforcement
agencies do not have regular satellite surveillance access.
In order for law enforcement to use satellites for
surveillance, they must have warrants and be given special
permission. It is even conceivable that some well-connected
criminal organizations might possible have satellite access.
Satellite surveillance is a fact of life in our world.
Whether or not you truly have to be worried about being
singled out for this special attention is a matter for
debate. However, it is worth noting that if you are a person
of interest to the government, chances are that it can find
you and then keep tabs on you.
This article was posted on September 27, 2005
