These issues are addressed in a new report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), writes [Space](https://www.space.com/astronomy/earth/the-future-of-earth-observation-private-satellites-and-ai-bring-benefits-but-also-pose-risks). The authors of the study note that the development of satellite technologies, cloud computing, and AI has made satellite data significantly more accessible. At the same time, the same systems can be used for both civilian purposes — such as monitoring natural disasters or illegal fishing — and for tracking military activity. "The development of optical systems, photonics, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence has made satellite data more qualitative and accessible. However, this combination of technologies also carries risks, including for national security and privacy," the OECD report states. Another issue is the spread of fake or deliberately distorted satellite images. The OECD warns that such materials can undermine trust in remote sensing data. According to representatives of the space company Space42, the main change in recent years has been the shift from a small number of large satellites to numerous specialized devices. Radar satellites (SAR), which can capture images at night and through clouds, are developing particularly rapidly. At the same time, the role of artificial intelligence is growing. Modern satellites produce such large volumes of information that it is no longer possible to process them manually. Algorithms allow for quick detection of changes in the terrain, helping to respond promptly to floods, natural disasters, and other emergencies. Experts also note the rapid growth of the commercial sector. While remote sensing was previously almost entirely controlled by government space agencies, private companies are playing an increasingly significant role today, and government structures are increasingly using their data. The next stage of development will be the application of artificial intelligence directly on satellites. This will allow for the analysis of images while still in orbit and the transmission of ready results to Earth instead of vast amounts of data. At the same time, specialists emphasize that alongside technological advancements, more attention must be paid to information protection, misinformation prevention, and training specialists who can not only use AI but also critically evaluate the results of algorithmic work.
