Satellites to assist the Japanese authorities
When a natural disaster occurs, such as like the massive earthquake that struck off the north-east coast of Honshu followed by a strong Tsunami, it is urgent to know the areas affected by the disaster, the current condition of the access roads as well as to identify areas where the population can be relocated safely.
It is precisely in these areas where satellite images become extremely useful to support the post disaster decision making process.
Linking Space to Education
Space studies bring a new dimension to science education. They introduce new knowledge, values and perspectives to our understanding of planet Earth and enhance our understanding of the universe. Space studies, based on the rational arguments of physics and mathematics, improve the critical-thinking, participatory problem-solving and decision making skills of students, and these are central to quality education - the priority goal of the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (2005-2014).