Launched in December 2007, RADARSAT-2's operational performance remains above specified parameters. It also continues to receive service enhancements such as the recently added maritime imaging modes.
MDA's Information Systems group introduced two new RADARSAT-2 imaging modes for commercial use. The modes are designed specifically for maritime monitoring and are expected to enhance RADARSAT-2 capabilities.
Ship Detection mode helps detect ships 25 meters in length or greater across areas as large as 450 kilometers by 500 kilometers in a single RADARSAT-2 scene. Ship Detection mode can be used for applications such as monitoring illegal fishing and sovereignty protection.
Ocean Surveillance mode can image areas as large as 530 kilometers by 500 kilometers in a single scene. This mode delivers ship-detection capability, but also can detect oil on water, analyze ice and wind, and detect wakes.
