THEMATIC MAPPER (TM)

The Multispectral Scanners (MSSs) were the first Thematic Mapper (TM). Based upon the success of the Multispectral Scanner, the Thematic Mapper, a second-generation sensor for monitoring Earth's resources, was developed for Landsats 4 and 5. The MSS was also carried on these spacecraft to provide data continuity. The TMs on Landsats 4 and 5 have better spatial, spectral, and radiometric resolution and extend spectral coverage into the blue, the short-wavelength infrared, and the thermal infrared. These instruments have continued to operate for years beyond their design-life goals. The Landsat 4 TM operated for more than 11 years, while the Landsat 5 instrument has more than 13 years of successful operation, as of this writing. The Enhanced Thematic Mapper was launched as the sole instrument on Landsat 6 on October 5, 1993. The ETM, developed for Landsat 6, had the same bands as the other TMs and also a panchromatic band with 15-meter resolution. Increased redundancy was incorporated into the instrument configuration to increase its lifetime, and the redesigned monolithic prime focal plane offered improved band-to-band registration. The data acquired by the Landsat 4 and 5 Thematic Mappers have enhanced knowledge of Earth in the fields of agriculture, geology, forestry, cartography, hydrology, oceanography, and bathymetry and have been used for environmental monitoring, disaster assessment, land-use and regional planning, range management..