Innovative Methods for the Benefit of Public Health Using Space Technologies for Disaster Response

Abstract

Space applications have evolved to play a significant role in disaster relief by providing services including remote sensing imagery for mitigation and disaster damage assessments; satellite communication to provide access to medical services; positioning, navigation, and timing services; and data sharing. Common issues identified in past disaster response and relief efforts include lack of communication, delayed ordering of actions (eg, evacuations), and low levels of preparedness by authorities during and after disasters. We briefly summarize the Space for Health (S4H) Team Project, which was prepared during the Space Studies Program 2014 within the International Space University. The S4H Project aimed to improve the way space assets and experiences are used in support of public health during disaster relief efforts. We recommend an integrated solution based on nano-satellites or a balloon communication system, mobile self-contained relief units, portable medical scanning devices, and micro-unmanned vehicles that could revolutionize disaster relief and disrupt different markets. The recommended new system of coordination and communication using space assets to support public health during disaster relief efforts is feasible. Nevertheless, further actions should be taken by governments and organizations in collaboration with the private sector to design, test, and implement this system.

Help from above: outer space and the fight against Ebola

“…Attendees at the third UN conference on the exploration and peaceful uses of outer space (UNISPACE III) in July, 1999, adopted a declaration that included recommen dations to use space technology to help control infectious diseases. 2, 3 Space can play a valuable part in tackling Ebola virus disease through many mechanisms. For instance, the space sector helped develop modern telemedicine, which is used daily by astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS).…”

Disaster Coverage Predication for the Emerging Tethered Balloon Technology: Capability for Preparedness, Detection, Mitigation, and Response

“…Therefore, the recommended new system of coordination and communication using space assets to support public health during disaster relief efforts is feasible. 3 Space technologies are essential tools for collecting information required for protecting people and for mitigating economic losses due to disasters. One of the reliable solutions for communications is satellite-based communication.…”

“…However, space communications technology can be used only for mitigating the impact of the disaster and for helping rescue and research teams to efficiently and successfully carry out their duty. Therefore, the recommended new system of coordination and communication using space assets to support public health during disaster relief efforts is feasible 3 . Space technologies are essential tools for collecting information required for protecting people and for mitigating economic losses due to disasters.…”

Aerospace Technology for Disaster Relief

“…While satellites provide a global view and coordination, small low-cost drones can deliver first-aid kits and vital medicine and can track people or deploy sensors that can be attached to their bodies for tracking and monitoring of vital signs. Larger autonomous helicopters could then be optimally deployed to rescue the most severely injured and to deploy self-contained disaster relief packages 1 . To achieve such capabilities, it is necessary to develop navigation systems for robust operations in extreme weather and natural terrains, a technology that could be viable several years from now.…”