Many spy satellites orbit on north-south paths that pass close to the poles so that, as the planet turns, the vast majority of Earth’s surface passes beneath their sensors over the course of 24 hours. The Corona spy satellite programme involved shooting capsules into space, which would take photos in orbit and fall back to Earth, to be retrieved mid-air. She used her skills to improve the analysis of reconnaissance images and to plan new generations of spy satellites. Its collapse diminished not only a main threat to Washington but also a top rationale for maintaining a fleet of costly spy satellites. “Spy Satellite Photos May Aid in Global Environment Study,” The Associated Press reported in May 1992.

Source: The Irish Times January 16, 2021 06:00 UTC