1 February 2001

Source: http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/planetearth/srtm_dataprivacy_990113.html

Mapping Mission Pits Science Against National Security
By Dan Sorid, 13 January 2000

"The detailed data, which show the altitude of objects as close together as 30 meters, will be enough to make a stunning and complete topographical map of these regions that could be used by authorities to better prepare for natural disasters, as well as give overall insight into the study of landslides. But elevation data also are important in battlefield planning, and can be used to set courses for missiles. "