Towards a Unified Identifier of Satellite Remote Sensing Images

The rapid growth of Earth observation technologies has resulted in over 2000 operational remote sensing satellites, collectively generating an exabyte-scale volume of data. However, despite the availability of large data-sharing platforms, global remote sensing imagery still faces challenges in seamless access, precise querying, and efficient retrieval. To address these limitations, this study introduces the concept of the “Digital Imagery Object” (DIO) and develops a unified identification framework for satellite remote sensing imagery. The proposed approach establishes a structured identification and parsing system based on core metadata, including data acquisition platforms and imaging timestamps. This enhances the consistency and standardization of multisource imagery encoding, enabling unified identification and interpretation under a common set of rules. The system’s feasibility and effectiveness were demonstrated through the integration and management of diverse global datasets, highlighting its ability to streamline multisource data workflows. By supporting standardized management and one-click parsing, this framework facilitates efficient imagery sharing and lays the foundation for its use as a tradable digital resource on the internet. The study offers a practical solution for addressing current challenges in remote sensing imagery management, paving the way for improved accessibility and interoperability of Earth observation data.