I think the photo in the article is just a press shot. The atmosphere basically ruins any chance of detailed images from satellites, hence him only being able to look for "refugee camps, burned villages, massing militias". Anything smaller just isn't going to be visible.

Whatta rip-off.

Still no flying cars either.

I have read of satellite cams that could read the license plate of a car, though. But you're right, that must be a press shot. The color's too perfect too.