6 Free Satellite Imagery Tools Every Investigator Should Know

Introduction to Free Satellite Sources

Overview of the Session

• The speaker introduces the topic of using six different free satellite sources for verification and investigation purposes.

• Emphasizes that these tools are accessible without paywalls or subscriptions, making them valuable for research and understanding global events.

Google Earth Pro

• Google Earth Pro is highlighted as the primary tool for accessing historical satellite imagery, available in both desktop and browser versions.

• The historical imagery slider feature allows users to view changes over time by sliding through updated images from various providers like Airbus and Maxar.

• Users can explore significant historical contexts, such as viewing London’s aerial imagery dating back to 1945, including World War II-related visuals.

Importance of Historical Context

• A tip is provided about not relying on a single image; instead, users should look at multiple timeframes to understand changes better.

• An example illustrates how comparing past images can help identify when destruction occurred in specific locations.

Capernicus Browser: Advanced Visualization Tools

Introduction to Capernicus

• Capernicus is introduced as a platform offering free access to Sentinel satellite imagery from the European Space Agency.

Data Visualization Features

• Users can manipulate data visualization through filters, allowing for enhanced analysis beyond just visible light images.

• Different visualization options include true color, shortwave infrared (SWIR), and NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index), each serving unique analytical purposes.

Practical Applications of Capernicus

• False color imaging helps identify signs of conflict or environmental changes by highlighting vegetation health and urban development areas.

• Sentinel 1 radar imagery enables users to penetrate cloud cover, providing additional insights into ground conditions during adverse weather.

Case Studies Using Satellite Imagery

Real-world Examples

• The speaker discusses practical applications by analyzing recent wildfires in Australia using satellite imagery from Capernicus.

Comparative Analysis Techniques

• Demonstrates how true color images may obscure details due to cloud cover while SWIR effectively reveals fire locations beneath clouds.

Benefits of Regular Updates

• Capernicus updates its satellite shots every few days, ensuring timely access to current data for ongoing investigations.

Exploring Satellite Imagery Tools

Understanding Image Dates and Features

• The importance of verifying the actual capture date of images is emphasized, as clicking on the image reveals accurate information. For instance, an image labeled for 2023 was actually captured on March 21, 2020.

• A demonstration of the swipe feature using imagery from Kabul air base in Afghanistan shows how to compare different years (2024 vs. 2025), highlighting changes post-coalition withdrawal.

• High-resolution imagery allows detailed observation of aerial assets and new constructions, such as a building that appeared between 2024 and 2025.

• The archive's extensive history dating back to 2014 provides valuable insights into change detection over time.

• Users are advised to check the specific capture dates of images for accuracy, as displayed dates may not reflect when the image was taken.

Utilizing ArcGIS Map Viewer

• Introduction to ArcGIS Map Viewer, a free web-based mapping tool offering high-resolution satellite maps and various geospatial data layers.

• Initial appearance may seem plain; users must add layers by selecting options like Living Atlas or ArcGIS online to access diverse datasets.

• Searching for specific locations (e.g., Sevastapool) reveals detailed imagery of significant sites like Russian defensive positions in Crimea.

• Notable features include high-resolution captures (30 cm resolution from June 14, 2025), showcasing aerial assets at military bases.

• Discovery of unique datasets such as comprehensive aerial imagery of New Zealand highlights the value beyond standard satellite images.

Exploring Other Mapping Tools

Apple Maps Insights

• Apple Maps is noted for its differentiation but lacks utility compared to other tools unless used for street view purposes.

• The app version offers enhanced features like a detailed 3D layer and improved texturing/shadowing on buildings, although coverage can be limited geographically.

Bing Maps Overview

• Bing Maps includes both standard satellite views and impressive aerial imagery capabilities useful for independent analysis.

• An example provided illustrates exceptional detail available through Bing’s aerial view function at a US Navy base in Norfolk.

Aerial Imagery Tools and Their Applications

Overview of Aerial Imagery

• The speaker emphasizes the incredible detail provided by aerial imagery compared to satellite images, highlighting its usefulness in various applications.

Choosing the Right Tool for Aerial Analysis

• For historical context, Google Earth Pro is recommended as it allows users to access past imagery effectively.

• Capernicus Browser is suggested for multisspectral analysis and cloud penetration, offering a macro-level view of recent data.

• Ezri World imagery provides high-resolution views and additional data useful for macro reporting and research.

• Apple Maps is noted as an alternative perspective tool, while Bing Maps is highlighted for aerial views.

• The speaker advises using multiple tools together (e.g., Google Earth for history, Capernicus for spectral analysis) to avoid confirmation bias in research.

Engagement and Resources

• Viewers are encouraged to like and subscribe for updates on tutorials and investigations that utilize these tools.

• Additional resources such as links and a cheat sheet with tips will be available in the video description.