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capability of RADARSAT to map sea ice distribution. We have now 
developed algorithms which enable the daily ice maps to be used to create 
charts showing ice dynamics. These will be invaluable in planning ship routes 
and supply activities for offshore platforms. 
The last example concerns the use of RADARSAT data merged with data 
from other sources in the interpretation of rock structures. On its own SAR 
data is a powerful tool for the identification of lineaments. This capability is 
enhanced when lineament patterns from scenes imaged from different look 
directions are combined. The addition of other mapped geophysical data, 
however, increases the amount of information which can be extracted by an 
order of magnitude. This conclusion is based on the use of gamma radiation, 
geomagnetism, gravimetric and optical data sets. 
Data availability 
The sole global distribution rights for RADARSAT data have been assigned 
to a new company called RADARSAT International Incorporated (RSI). 
This company will negotiate direct read-out agreements with receiving station 
operators through which data will be made available internationally. The 
RADARSAT Mission Management Office will schedule data acquisition for 
customers of RSI without restrictions other than those necessary for technical 
or programmatic reasons. Data thus acquired or data retrieved from archives 
will be sold on a non-discriminatory basis according to a scale of prices to be 
determined. This procedure will also apply to international organisations 
using data to support their programs but always on the condition that data is 
not copied or distributed. 
Because RADARSAT is a five year mission, and because the tape recorders 
are subject to mechanical wear and tear, use of the tape recorders will be 
limited to the support of approved research activities, application 
demonstration projects and operational needs of the Canadian government. 
The direct downlink transmitters on RADARSAT function at approximately 
the same frequency and data rate as those on the ESA ERS-1 satellite. This 
means that any station capable of reading out ERS-1 data could, with an 
appropriate upgrade, read out RADARSAT data. Since there are expected 
to be eight or ten such stations, between them covering the greater part of the 
worlds land mass with their station masks, the global availability of 
RADARSAT data by direct read-out should be fairly comprehensive. Where 
necessary, to complete a section of the global SAR stereo map for example, 
it will be supplemented by the use of the tape recorders.