

#36 - Bill Perkins - Space and The Future of Satellite Imaging
Jan 29, 2025
Bill Perkins, founder of groundbreaking satellite imagery companies, dives into the transformative role of satellite data in our lives. He discusses how public access to satellite imagery is revolutionizing climate monitoring and illegal fishing enforcement. The conversation touches on the ethical implications of surveillance, the possibilities of hyperspectral imaging, and the urgent issue of oceanic dead zones. Perkins also shares predictions about the future of satellite tech and its potential to enhance resource management on Earth.
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Democratized Satellite Data
- Once classified satellite data is now publicly available, democratizing access to crucial information.
- This empowers individuals, researchers, and organizations to address global challenges collectively.
Hyperspectral Imaging
- Hyperspectral imaging goes beyond visible light, analyzing the chemical composition of each pixel.
- This allows for detailed insights, like detecting methane leaks or crop infestations, from space.
Methane Leak Detection
- Planet Labs and Carbon Mapper launched a hyperspectral satellite to map methane plumes globally.
- They alerted a company about a significant methane leak, which was then remediated, demonstrating the technology's impact.