In June, the US government lifted restrictions on satellite imaging. Until now, companies haven’t been able to gather or use images where features smaller than 50 cm were visible. However, satellite imaging firm Digital Globe said it would be able to sell images as small as 31 cm and successfully lobbied to ease restrictions.

Now, 2 months later, the first high-res imaging satellite is ready to launch. WorldView 3 will be the first satellite to offer high resolution imaging on a commercial basis. The spacecraft will be similar to Satellite Imaging Corporation’s WorldView 2 but with significantly enhanced imaging software.

Lockheed Martin’s Commercial Launch Services will put the WorldView-3 in orbit on Wednesday, August 13 from Space Launch Complex 3# at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. If all goes according to plan, the spacecraft will be placed in orbit at an altitude of 617km.

In addition to commercial applications such as monitoring large farms and scouting for mineral deposits, the new higher resolution imaging will help with more public issues such as disaster relief and recovery.

The 18 foot tall, 8 foot wide satellite is expected to perform its task for 7-12 years before it has to be replaced.

For those interested in watching, the Lockheed Martin launch will be webcast live at 11:30 AM PT / 2:30 PM ET on the United Launch Alliance website.