Final answer:
Remote sensing is best defined as the collection of data without physical contact with the observed object, often using satellites or aircraft, and is crucial in fields like geography and astronomy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best definition of remote sensing is b. collecting data without physical contact with the object being observed. This technology acquires information about the Earth's surface from a distance, using various tools like satellites, aircraft, or spacecraft. For instance, remote sensing allows geographers to create aerial photographs or satellite images which are vital in identifying and understanding landscapes, analyzing land use, and examining changes over time due to natural or human actions. An example of remote sensing technology includes the images and data collected by GPS satellites, like the GPS Block II-F satellite. This kind of technology also plays a crucial role in astronomy, where telescopes equipped with electronic detectors gather data remotely for further analysis.