WorldView-3, the world's most advanced commercial imaging satellite, has been successfully placed in a heliosynchronous orbit.

An Atlas V rocket launched WorldView-3 into a solar orbit Aug. 13.

The satellite will be capable of sending the highest resolution images from space, a feat that is only possible with airplanes, said Dr. Walter Scott, CTO and founder of DigitalGlobe.

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It has the ability to differentiate data points that are over a foot apart, meaning it can take photos with astounding detail. WorldView-3 also has the astonishing ability to see through smoke.

If the satellite were over a baseball stadium, it'd be able to identify home plate and the individual players.

"You can see moisture, identify the types of minerals in the ground, tell the temperature of the air - it's a level of information never before possible," said Scott.

Built by the advanced technologies company Exelis, the satellite's imaging systems are able to see much further into the electromagnetic spectrum than the human eye can.

Shortwave infrared can also be used for imaging, allowing the satellite to see through smoke, clouds, fog, and other such particulates that will be useful in observing neighboring planets and even the Earth.

The satellite operates from a heliosynchronous orbit, meaning it will be revolving around the sun.

WorldView-3 can photograph an area 680,000 square kilometers per day. It also collects more data than a usual visual image.

While the satellite is quite costly, its advanced capabilities guarantee a stream of revenues for DigitalGlobe. These contracts include deals with governments, location services and oil and gas industries.

WorldView-4 is already in production and is scheduled to launch in 2016.

TagsAtlas V, DigitalGlobe, WorldView-3