To PAC or not to PAC, that is the question.

Regarding access to remote sensing data, there are a number of aspects that need to be taken into consideration such as user time limit for e.g. space scientists, what rights do the involving states have, access rights for foreign domains and archiving. But the most central aspect is perhaps the pricing of such information. The demand for remote sensing data creates a competitive market, a market driven by price and self-interest. However, unlike food or other primary needs, remote sensing data is not a life supporting product; hence if the price is perceived as too high the data will not or cannot be used by e.g. organisations and authorities. If remote sensing data would be made more accessible to users through e.g. affordable prices and international information sharing systems, it could be beneficial to mankind in terms of supporting global sustainable development.