A satellite captures images every 90 minutes. How many full images are captured in 4.5 days, accounting for a 15% data loss due to cloud cover?

Mon, 04 May 2026 10:56:46 +0000

**How Many Full Images Does a Satellite Capture in 4.5 Days—And What Cloud Loss Means for Reality** Curious about how often the eye in the sky keeps watching? A satellite takes a photograph every 90 minutes. When calculating how many full images are collected over a 4.5-day period—factoring in typical data gaps from cloud interference—interest in satellite imagery and Earth observation is proving more than a passing trend. With 15% data loss due to weather masking part of each orbit, understanding the true number reveals deeper insights into remote sensing capabilities and our growing reliance on satellite data. **The Mechanics: Counting What’s Seen, Not What’s Lost** A satellite orbits Earth approximately every 90 minutes. Over 4.5 days—equivalent to 108 total orbits—this means real-time captures reach around 108 images. But cloud cover interrupts data collection, cutting about 15% from each orbit’s potential. Instead of assuming perfect captures, real systems account for gaps, preserving data integrity. Factoring in this loss, the effective number of usable images falls just below 90—showing reality in satellite imaging isn’t just about sight, but about resilience through imperfect conditions.