The Peruvian satellite PeruSAT-1 —which has been operational for seven years— has delivered more than 110,777 metric and submetric optical images for disaster prevention and management, in addition to other purposes such as national defense.
Faced with El Niño phenomenon, this scientific instrument will become Peru's eyes in space in order to get prepared for possible floods, and its priority is to capture satellite images, from Peru's northern zone above all.
Those satellite images were delivered to the Ministry of Environment and other entities involved.
With the passage of Cyclone Yaku, 500 images were recorded by the Peruvian satellite system, which is integrated by PeruSAT-1.
For the announced phenomenon, authorities from the National Civil Defense Institute (Indeci), the National Emergency Operations Center (Coen), the Multisectoral Commission in Charge of the National Study of El Niño Phenomenon (Enfen), the National Center for Disaster Risk Estimation, Prevention, and Reduction (Cenepred), plus other institutions receive satellite images continuously.
FAP Major General Garcia Morgan told Andina news agency
that areas historically affected by intense rains have been prioritized since the beginning of 2023.
How is imaging linked to El Niño phenomenon conducted?
Just as in other national defense cases, such as the detection of illegal mining activities or illicit-drug crops, the images to be obtained from PeruSAT-1 and the Peruvian satellite system are programmed in advance.
So far, most of this material delivered is from Peru's northern area.
"If the satellite is in Pucusana right now, it takes 26 days to pass through its vertical (line) again; however, that is to be above it. In 98 minutes, the satellite has already circled the planet, and with a small angle, it can capture an image (for emergencies). That's a return visit," he explained.
Satellite images have metadata that are relevant parameters containing key information for decision-making in terms of prevention or emergency response (efforts).
In parallel, Conida carries out training for the staff of each institution so that they can make the most of the data obtained.
As the expected date for El Niño approaches, the taking of satellite images of various parts of this country will increase.
Peruvian satellite operations center in Lima
However, on emergency occasions, this establishment housed staff for several days, as happened during Cyclone Yaku earlier this year.
That is why Conida currently considers setting up an emergency response office at its venue in San Isidro district, Lima.
(END) SPV/MVB