In which context is imagery considered inadequate for GEOINT?

Imagery is often considered inadequate for GEOINT when it is taken by human intelligence sources because such intelligence relies heavily on subjective interpretation and potential biases of the observer. While human-derived insights can fill in contextual gaps that imagery alone may miss, they may not provide the precise, measurable, and verifiable data that strict GEOINT necessitates.

Human intelligence can complement imagery but may lack the systematic objectivity that satellite or aerial imagery provides. Therefore, while human intelligence can enhance the understanding of a situation, the foundational data for GEOINT is typically derived from sensors that provide consistent and repeatable data coverage, making this option particularly illustrative of the limitations of imagery in certain contexts.