Images of the Earth’s Surface and Atmosphere
Abstract Two-dimensional analogue or digital images are obtained, with appropriate spatial resolution, from aircraft or satellites by remote sensing of radiation in the ultraviolet, visible, infrared and microwave parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. These images are used for cartography or for st...
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| Format: | Book Part |
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Oxford University PressOxford
1997
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| Online Access: | http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780198511977.003.0012 https://academic.oup.com/book/chapter-pdf/52447055/isbn-9780198511977-book-part-12.pdf |
| Summary: | Abstract Two-dimensional analogue or digital images are obtained, with appropriate spatial resolution, from aircraft or satellites by remote sensing of radiation in the ultraviolet, visible, infrared and microwave parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. These images are used for cartography or for studies of geology, glaciology, hydrology, flooding, vegetation (crops and forestry, including forest fires) and volcanoes. Over the oceans they give physical information on subocean features, sea surface temperatures, currents, waves and shipping; they also provide valuable information on the ocean’s biological productivity—phytoplankton and nutrient rich areas that are good for fishing. Regarding the atmosphere, information is gained on clouds, winds, cyclones, hurricanes and rainfall as well as air pollution, temperature structure and ozone content. The aurora australis and borealis are well studied from satellites in eccentric orbits. Thus, such images on local, regional and global scales are used for a variety of purposes for the benefit both of the peoples of the Earth and of the Earth itself. |
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