Spy Satellites are very special because some of the powerful satellites can even read the number plate on a car. The power of a spy satellite is measured by the resolution of pictures it can take. Resolution means the satellite camera’s ability to identify objects as small as 1m.

Arirang-3 (Spy satellite) launch lifts Korea's space program

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  • 1m resolution allows identification of buildings, vehicles.
  • 2.5 resolutions allow identification of buildings, detection but not recognition of vehicles.
  • 5m resolution permits recognition but not identification of buildings. It cannot detect vehicles.