Battle-damage detector can help aid groups rapidly respond during war

An algorithm that detects battle damage can compare satellite images to estimate the number of buildings destroyed and people affected by ongoing conflicts. It has been tested on satellite images of Ukraine and Gaza, and could be used to quickly guide relief and reconstruction efforts by humanitarian organisations.

The algorithm detected differences between intact and damaged buildings in 12 different cities by analysing radar signals from the European Space Agency’s Sentinel-1 satellites. These satellites typically capture a consistent return…