On July 23, 1972, the first Earth Resources Technology Satellite (ERTS-1), later renamed Landsat 1, was launched with the explicit purpose of “gathering facts about the natural resources of the Earth from Earth-observing satellites carrying sophisticated remote sensing observation instruments.” After more than five decades of observations and eight operational missions, the Landsat Program continues to deliver scientifically valuable and visually stunning images of the Earth.
"Over the past 50 years, eight Landsat satellites have circled the planet, which have helped to save and improve lives and support our economy. NASA will continue to work with the USGS to improve access to Landsat's unprecedented 50-year record and build upon the program's legacy."
Bill Nelson
NASA Administrator, July 21, 2022
