A New York Times article dated 20 August 2010 uses analysis released by UNOSAT, UNITAR Operational Satellite Applications Programme. The article, focused on the worsening situation in flood affected Pakistan, reports “Millions have been left homeless by flooding that extends across Pakistan. An analysis by UNITAR/UNOSAT, an Agency of the United Nations, of satellite images taken since the beginning of August shows thousands of square miles of water-covered land along the Indus River”.

On the same day The New York Times featured also a map based on UNOSAT data, both in the paper version and on the on-line version of the popular newspaper.

It is not the first time that the New York Times features data and analysis from UNOSAT in articles about natural disasters and humanitarian crises. “Again, we are very pleased that prime media like the New York Times showcase UN excellence. This is additional evidence of our professionalism and accuracy”, said Einar Bjorgo, Senior Specialist with UNOSAT.

Satellite derived maps and analyses are entering the day-to-day life of missions as they are increasingly used to visualise situations in remote areas of the world where entire populations live exposed to natural hazards, conflict and famine. UNOSAT has been operating for 10 years to bring out the best of satellite technology and put it at the service of the international community, in particular humanitarian responders.

To see the New York Times map click here

To read the article click here

To see all UNOSAT maps on the Pakistani flood emergency, click here