Using open-source software and low-cost computers for Earth-observation data processing

The introduction of open-source software compliant with industry standards has allowed the use of low-cost standard computers for a new set of Earth-o bservation applications. The Linux operating system is an example of this k ind, which makes it possible to use ordinary PCs for demanding data-process ing needs. ESA has benefited from this opportunity by replacing old and dif ficult to maintain systems with new ones providing both a significant incre ase in performance and a reduction in investment as well as maintenance cos ts.