What is one issue associated with collection platforms?

Coverage is a significant issue associated with collection platforms because it refers to the ability of a platform to gather data over a specific geographic area and timeframe. In geospatial intelligence, achieving complete and effective coverage is crucial, as gaps in data can lead to incomplete situational awareness and hinder decision-making processes.

Different collection platforms—whether aerial, satellite, or ground-based—have varying capabilities in terms of how much area they can survey at once, how frequently they can revisit an area, and their effectiveness in different environmental conditions. If a platform cannot provide adequate coverage of an area of interest, it may miss important developments or changes, which can impact intelligence analysis.

Additionally, coverage is influenced by factors such as the altitude or orbit of the platform, the resolution of the sensors, and the angle of observation. Therefore, having the right type of platform that ensures comprehensive coverage is essential for effective geospatial intelligence operations.