[1] A network of these facilities was established in 1977 to maintain photographic and digital data as well as mission documentation.

Each facility's general holding contains images and maps of planets and their satellites taken by solar system exploration spacecraft.

The facilities are primarily reference centers for browsing, studying, and selecting lunar and planetary photographic and cartographic materials.

Experienced staff can assist scientists, educators, students, media, and the public in ordering materials for their own use.

[2] Since it was formally established, the network of RPIFs once numbered nine U.S. facilities and seven in other countries.