Up to the higher altitude-the new "three campaigns" for the development of China spaceborne remote sensing application

Abstract

In the 1970s and 1980s as the new period of reform and opening up approached, the Teng Chong aerial remote sensing experiment, the Tianjin-Bohai Bay environmental remote sensing experiment, and the Ertan hydropower exploitation remote sensing experiment were performed to improve the remote sensing technology cognition of China. These remote sensing experiments were the products of an unprecedented, well-organized technological cooperation among several research bodies. Through these experiments, multidisciplinary in- tegration was implemented and a large number of high-quality professional and technical experts were cultivated. China also achieved many scientific and technological achievements as well as remarkable economic and social benefits. Using remote sensing technology, we improved our capability of recognizing our natural environment, and remote sensing integrated application was successfully introduced into China. Therefore, these experiments were collectively called the "three campaigns" of remote sensing in China. After rapidly developing and accumulating over the last 40 years, spaceborne remote sensing application has entered several important stages and is increasingly becoming a strategic emerging industry oriented through continuous accumulation, bold innovation, and rapid collection. To satisfy the demands of China's current science, technology, economy, society, and globalization development strategies, the high-resolution Earth observation system, the national civil space infrastructure and long-term development plan, and the global earth observation system (2030) were implemented in China to help the country shift from pursuing foreign advanced technologies to pursuing research and development independently. By paving the way for space remote sensing applications to enter the stages of industrialization and commercialization, these three projects can be collectively called the new "three campaigns" of remote sensing in China. Combined with the Belt and the Road, the implementation of these "three campaigns" will enhance the "going out" strategy, expand the global service ability, and enhance the international competitiveness of China to a new level.