112k views
2 votes
What is remote sensing? Describe the three remote sensing tools that geographers can use.

User Imike
by
8.1k points

1 Answer

5 votes

Answer:

Remote sensing is the process of detecting and monitoring the physical characteristics of an area by measuring its reflected and emitted radiation at a distance (typically from satellite or aircraft). Special cameras collect remotely sensed images, which help researchers "sense" things about the Earth.

Here are some of the common sensor technologies:

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)

Sound navigation ranging (Sonar)

Radiometers and spectrometers

We use Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and Sonar are ideal for building topographic models. But the main difference between the two is “where”. While LiDAR is best suited for the ground, Sonar works better underwater.

By using these technologies, we build digital elevation models. Using these topographic models, we can predict flooding risk, archaeological sites, and delineating watersheds (to name a few).

GLOBAL ISSUES

As the world becomes more globalized, we are just starting to see the proliferation of remote sensing. For example, satellites tackle issues including:

Navigating with global positioning systems

Climate change monitoring

Arctic surveillance

Satellite information is fundamentally important if we are going to solve some of the major challenges of our time. All things considered, it’s an expanding field reaching new heights.

For issues like climate change, natural resources, disaster management, and the environment, remote sensing provides a wealth of information on a global scale.

User Antiokhos
by
8.2k points