Satellites play key role in detecting Philippines storm damage

PARIS, Dec 3 (AFP) - International satellites are playing a key role in observing the damage caused by deadly tropical storms in the Philippines in order to facilitate the dispatch of aid, France's national space studies centre (Cnes) said Friday.
Cnes engineer Thierry Duverger said four satellites, Spot5, Radarsat, ERS and Envisat, were taking photographs and radar measurements to help evaluate the state of roads and communication systems and the risks to health.
The satellites were focussed on the Philippines under an international charter signed by a number of space agencies, including those of France, Europe, the United States, Canada and India.
"Images from space can help in organising relief, estimating the damage and providing figures, so that the right aircraft can be sent to help the victims."

12/03/2004 13:55 GMT - AFP