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Using Satellite Imagery to Investigate War Crimes

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Polina Uzhvak

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What to know about satellite images

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They’re more than just pictures!

Satellites can capture more data than people can see with eyes

For example:

  • Infrared sensors can detect heat spots on the Earth's surface

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NASA Fire map and Military Conflicts

  • Shows heat spots all over the planet in near real time
  • Helpful to confirm some strikes, for example

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Fires after a Ukrainian strike on an ammunition depot

FIRMS — September 21, 2024

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What to know about satellite images

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  • They’re more than just pictures!

Satellites capture more data than the human eye can see

For example:

  • Infrared sensors can detect heat spots on the Earth's surface
  • Radar satellite data can be used to measure the height of objects and detect building damage on the ground

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Two approaches

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  • Visual analysis
  • Advanced analysis

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New York Times

Investigation into the killing of civilians in Bucha

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Istories

Torture pits on the Russian military training grounds

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Traces of the War from Space

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Mariupol

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To keep in mind when working with a technical team

  • No one has to know your story as well as you
  • Provide all details for the technical team in advance
  • Check regularly that you share the same vision of the investigation and next steps
  • Divide responsibilities clearly

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Bachmut

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Sjewjerodonezk

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Mariupol

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Where to find satellite images

High-quality, low-frequency

  • Google Earth Pro
    • Shows changes over time
    • Offers high quality
    • Includes built-in tools to measure distance and area
    • Allows overlaying external files

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Mariupol, Ukraine

14.03.2022

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Mariupol, Ukraine

26.03.2022

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Where to find satellite images

Low quality, high frequency

  • Copernicus Browser

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Showing flood extent using Copernicus Browser

Kurgan, Russia

14.04.2024

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Kurgan, Russia

20.04.2024

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Polina Uzhvak

data and investigative reporter, IStories

uzhvak@istories.media