1. Introduction to Fundamentals
1.1 What is Remote Sensing?
So, what exactly is
remote sensing
? For the purposes of this tutorial, we will use the
following definition:
"Remote sensing is the science (and to some extent, art) of acquiring
information about the Earth's surface without actually being in contact
with it. This is done by sensing and recording reflected or emitted energy
and processing, analyzing, and applying that information."
In much of remote sensing,
the process
involves an interaction between incident radiation
and the targets of interest. This is exemplified by the use of imaging systems where the
following seven elements are involved. Note, however that remote sensing also involves the
sensing of emitted energy and the use of non-imaging sensors.
1. Energy Source or Illumination (A)
- the
first requirement for remote sensing is to have
an energy source which illuminates or
provides electromagnetic energy to the target
of interest.
2. Radiation and the Atmosphere (B)
- as
the energy travels from its source to the
target, it will come in contact with and interact
with the atmosphere it passes through. This
interaction may take place a second time as
the energy travels from the target to the
sensor.
3. Interaction with the Target (C)
- once the energy makes its way to the target through the
atmosphere, it interacts with the target depending on the properties of both the target and the
radiation.
Page 5Section 1.1 What is Remote Sensing?
Canada Centre for Remote Sensing
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