14 June 2017, Geneva, Switzerland, and Washington, DC, USA - The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) through its Operational Satellite Applications Programme (UNOSAT) and Radiant.Earth, have agreed to explore new Earth observation data innovations supporting humanitarian disaster management, global health, climate change, sustainable water management and cultural heritage. With Radiant.Earth’s capacity in combining the best in discovery and dissemination with the latest trends in image processing, and UNOSAT’s experience in satellite imagery analysis and capacity development, the two entities will collaborate to make data and solutions widely available to the global development community for overall support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  

The cooperation will focus on joint activities to raise awareness about the benefits of Earth observation at the local level, automate analysis, and provide capacity building activities on the use of Earth observation data for the global development community.

“UNOSAT expertise in rapid mapping combined with our shared mission to build the capacity of governments and non-profits in using satellite imagery for disaster situations makes this partnership quite powerful. Our alliance can help strengthen the resiliency in vulnerable regions to deal with climate change, displacements, food security, among many other global challenges,” says Anne Hale Miglarese, CEO of Radiant.Earth.

 “This partnership fits us perfectly, as we can combine the operational nature of UNOSAT with the outreach and long-term impact Radiant.Earth is also looking for,” says Einar Bjorgo, UNOSATs manager. “Finally, we will have a platform and solutions in place for accessing the wealth of Earth observation data out there, and the ready-to-use products that will go along with them”.

UNITAR’s Operational Satellite Applications Programme (UNOSAT) is recognized as a Centre of Knowledge within the United Nations for satellite image analysis and geospatial applications. Since 2000, UNOSAT has provided the United Nations family and Member States with access to satellite imagery and satellite-derived analysis through the development and provision of Earth Observation and GIS applications, as well as training and capacity development, for humanitarian relief and human security, human rights, crisis management and prevention, recovery and development, in alignment with its commitment towards supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

Radiant.Earth is a non-profit organization, committed to aggregating the world’s open Earth imagery and providing access and education on its use to the global development community. At the center of Radiant.Earth is an open technology platform that will help people discover and analyze the vast resources of Earth imagery, accelerating improved decision-making and fueling new solutions, discoveries and innovations. In support of this user-driven platform, Radiant.Earth offers an integrated and robust community development program to guide people in the use of Earth imagery, geospatial data sets and tools. This includes insights into the commercial market and related policies