The Landsats Satellites The idea of a satellite that could produce images of a civilian Earth was first thought of in the Department of Interior in the mid-1960’s. On July 23, 1972, NASA launched the first Landsat Satellite. It was designed to take provide images of the earth’s land masses. It used a Nimbus platform that was modified to carry sensor systems and data relay equipment. The satellite surprised everyone by lasting 4 years longer then its life expectancy of a year. On January 22, 1975 NASA launched a second of the Landsat series. Three more Landsats were launched in 1978, 1982 and 1984. Each satellite was successful and had improved sensor and