Summary: Senate Bill 657, if enacted, would broaden the government's role in satellite-based remote sensing technology from support of research and development to support of an operational system. The system envisioned in the bill would be centered on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's experimental Landsat project. There is not assurance as to the net benefits, if any, which would arise from an operational Landsat system. Landsat is intended to demonstrate the use of space-related technology for down-to-earth practical benefits, but there are strong indications that current and potential users of Landsat data lack sufficient knowledge of how to use the data. There is a need for a thorough study of the interrelationships of existing or planned earth resources information systems. The advantages and disadvantages of a national system as opposed to an international system require thorough study to assist in shaping federal policy regarding support of an operational system. There is a lack of clear-cut assignment of responsibility for the successful implementation of the overall system. Some sections of the bill could act to discourage or delay private-sector participation in the system.
