Earth Observations and Space
Outer space is a unique natural resource that is often ignored. As more opportunities to utilize this resource emerge, work at RFF helps policymakers who will need to design comprehensive guidelines that clarify near-Earth ownership, responsibilities, and pollution protocols to help regulate the use and development of space.
VALUABLES Consortium
Learn about our work with NASA to quantify the benefits of Earth observations.
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Measuring the Value of Satellite Data
Find out how the social benefits of satellite data are quantified.
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Satellite Data Can Inform Water Policy
Earth scientists and water managers can use satellite data to maintain water quality and availability.
On the Issues: Methane Leaks, Paying for Renewable Energy, and More
Connecting this week's environmental and energy news to RFF's economic research.
Explainer — Oct 29, 2019
Introducing the VALUABLES Consortium Impact Assessment Framework
How can the societal benefits of information like satellite data be measured?
Explainer — Oct 29, 2019
Introducing the VALUABLES Consortium Impact Assessment Framework
How can the societal benefits of information like satellite data be measured?
Working Paper — Jul 11, 2019
The Cost-Effectiveness of Satellite Earth Observations to Inform a Post-Wildfire Response
This study demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of using satellite imagery to assess burned areas and prioritize response measures after a wildfire; it shows that, by using Landsat imagery, federal agencies can save up to $7.7 million per year in post-fire costs.
Working Paper — Sep 12, 2018
Using Satellite Data to Fill the Gaps in the US Air Pollution Monitoring Network
This paper uses new satellite data to assess fine particulate matter concentrations and finds that 24.4 million more Americans than previously thought live in counties that do not meet the annual health standard set under the Clean Air Act.
Workshop/Seminar — Oct 30, 2019
2019 VALUABLES Consortium Annual Workshop
The VALUABLES Consortium's workshop is an annual gathering of economists, NASA experts, Earth scientists, decisionmakers, and thought leaders.
RFF Live — Oct 30, 2019
Taking the Pulse of a Changing Planet
Watch experts discuss past, present, and future opportunities in applications of satellite data.
Webinar — Oct 16, 2019
VALUABLES Consortium Grants for Assessing the Benefits of Satellites: Applicant Webinar
Learn more about the VALUABLES Consortium's GABS funding opportunity.
Press Release — Jul 11, 2019
Satellite Imagery Saves Federal Agencies up to $7.7 Million per Year in Post-Wildfire Costs
A new VALUABLES study finds that using the Landsat satellite program is the most cost-effective method to assess burned land and prioritize responses.
Media Highlight — Sep 13, 2018
EPA Staff Co-Wrote Study Linking Emissions to Death
Media Highlight — Jan 26, 2018
Report Recommends Priorities for Earth Observations from Space
Satellite Data Can Inform Water Policy
Earth scientists and water managers can use satellite data to maintain water quality and availability.
On the Issues: Methane Leaks, Paying for Renewable Energy, and More
Connecting this week's environmental and energy news to RFF's economic research.
Satellites Help Keep Communities Safe from Toxic Algal Blooms
Satellites can serve as public health heroes, passing along important information that’s gathered from the vantage point of outer space, protecting communities and saving them money in the process.