But technology is catching up here. Software companies are helping us find new ways to compress, store, and utilize large amounts of data. Moore's Law, a truism in the computer industry, remains in effect and is expected to continue. In 1965 Intel cofounder Gordon Moore said microchip miniaturization would lead to a doubling of computer power every 18 months. He was right, experts say.
Computers continue to get more powerful, less expensive, and smaller in size.
Today's home computer offers what formerly was available to cutting edge businesses only. Not only are the desktop computers growing in capability, so is the ability to gather information. Kirk Waters of the Center's remote sensing program says the number of satellites coming to the launching pad is on the increase, especially from the private sector. The new satellites will offer data of a resolution previously the exclusive domain of spy satellites. Water quality indicators, land cover documentation and mapping, and ocean temperature measurements are just a few types of coast-related information obtainable from these satellites.