Open Skies Treaty -- What Can They See?

The Treaty on Open Skies has not yet entered into force, but several countries have actually flown Open Skies missions over the United States during the last two years. They are permitted to keep the imagery they have collected. Since no airspace is restricted for Open Skies flights, any sensitive activities can be at risk to imagery. This paper discusses the types of imagery with a discussion of what can be deduced from the imagery that has been collected. Since most facilities are provided only 24 to 48 hours notice of an impending overflight, it is useful to understand the detail of imagery that is collected. This will enable better, more cost effective preparations for potential Open Skies overflights.