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Satellites are very useful in cartography, or map making. In many areas of the world, medium- and small-scale maps are inaccurate. To make an accurate map, many measurements of distance and elevation must be made and recorded. Satellites make this job easier. Satellites have the ability to extract a wide variety of information, noting geographical features, sources of water, and land use features. Using current technology, relatively inexpensive detailed maps of entire countries can be made.

Mapping and surveying companies use GPS extensively.

The image above shows a NASA project known as the “S.R.T.M.” (Shuttle Radar Topography Mission), which continues to create extremely detailed three-dimensional representations of most of the Earth’s surface. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory contributed digital imaging expertise, helping create a seamless physical world map out of more than 500 separate images.