We should consider adding image caching for images loaded from remote URLs. This is similar to what browsers do when loading remote images, and will help multiple executions of the same application for those applications that load remote images from http, https, or ftp URLs.

Note that an experimental, preliminary prototype of an image cache based on the NASA Worldwind code was included in early developer builds, but it was never finished, nor was the legal due diligence done to use the third party code even if we did want to use it. As a result, it was removed (see RT-9470).

When we decide to implement this optimization, we should reconsider using the NASA code, if it makes sense to do so.