This SpringerBrief provides a general overview of the role of satellite applications for disaster mitigation, warning, planning, recovery and response. It covers both the overall role and perspective of the emergency management community as well as the various space applications that support their work. Key insights are provided as to how satellite telecommunications, remote sensing, navigation systems, GIS, and the emerging domain of social media are utilized in the context of emergency management needs and requirements. These systems are now critical in addressing major man-made and natural disasters. International policy and treaties are covered along with various case studies from around the world. These case studies indicate vital lessons that have been learned about how to use space systems more effectively in addressing the so-called “Disaster Cycle.”

This book is appropriate for practicing emergency managers, Emergency Management (EM) courses, as well as for those involved in various space applications and developing new satellite technologies.

Scott Madry is the founder and president of Informatics International, Inc., an international remote sensing and GIS consulting company located in Chapel Hill, NC. He also holds appointments as a research associate professor of archaeology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and professor of satellite applications at the International Space University in Strasbourg, France. He has been involved with the International Space University since 1988 and has taught in 19 summer programs around the world. He is a specialist in remote sensing and GIS for regional environmental and cultural applications, including disaster planning and response.