Direct Broadcast Receiving Station and Satellite Sensor Data
One goal of the MAGIC program is to develop a rapid response capability to deliver remote sensing data to address a broad range of applications in the region. As a result, CSR operates a direct broadcast satellite receiving system for rapid acquisition and processing of data from orbiting satellites. CSR also gathers data from NASA and other federal data centers via high-speed networks.
Emergency Response
MAGIC uses its experience with real-time data collection to assist the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) in support of disaster response operations and emergency preparedness activities. MAGIC analyzes satellite and aerial sensor data to evaluate the changing threat environment and to perform wide-area damage assessment following natural and man-made disasters.
Monitoring Regional Water Resources
Daily observations of Texas and surrounding regions made by NASA and international satellites provide ways to characterize the condition of the landscape when weather and climate conditions change. MAGIC uses data from the MODIS instruments on NASA’s Terra and Aqua satellites to detect hotspots associated with wildfires and to reveal the response of vegetation affected by periods of drought or abundant rainfall.