Modes of Perception

What: A research project that challenges the public perception of satellite technology and use. Why: Satellites are seen as valuable sources of information for scientific purposes, but they have always been political and military tools as well. The boundary between the two is blurry, and the whole apparatus involved too. By zooming in on the refugee crisis in the Mediterranean Sea, Julian Peschel exposes the surveillance part. How: Two video projections showcase that side of the EU’s Earth observation programme Copernicus, juxtaposing the satellite’s perspective with the human interpretation and follow-up. Crucial data that is only shared with the controversial Border and Coast Guard Agency Frontex can lead to a rescue operation or end in a fatal cover-up.