In 1978, the French government decided to launch an operational Earth observation programme. SPOT is one element of a series of projects designed to better understand and manage the planet. Every need, whether it be for meteorology, climatology, oceanography, or geophysics, requires different satellites and sensors.

The SPOT satellites are a worldwide benchmark for Earth observation and have amply demonstrated their usefulness as a research tool. The SPOT system comprises a series of satellites and ground control resources for programming image acquisition, receiving images and generating data products. SPOT data are serving a broad range of applications, including cartography, natural resource management and land planning and management.

Since the launch of the first satellite in 1986, CNES has played a central role in the design and implementation of the SPOT programme. CNES, as the satellite operator, is in charge of the stationkeeping of the SPOT satellite constellation. CNES handles technological monitoring, payload programming—that is, of the instruments on the satellites—and product quality control.

From the start of the project, CNES was aware of the potential importance of the satellite imagery market, and created an organization for promotion and sales. Spot Image, founded in 1982, prepares the daily satellite workplan, and handles the production, marketing and distribution of SPOT imagery, products and related services.

Since SPOT 1, the governments of Belgium and Sweden have participated in the programme, each contributing 4% of the cost. This funding takes the form of participation by their respective industries in the production of satellite equipment or ground resources. Italy and Spain also manufacture certain systems used in common with other programmes.