Electromagnetic Radiation

Satellites

Remote Sensing of the Cryosphere

On the other hand, active systems, such as radar and sonar, actively broadcast their own energy and derive information from its reflection and scattering.
Example of an active sensor


Satellite remote sensing is generally used to measure or obtain information about relatively large areas such as large weather systems or county to continental-scale images and maps. Aerial photography and other airborne sensors,
on the other hand, are generally used to map and measure relatively small areas in greater detail.
A few of the environmental applications of data derived from remote sensing include descriptions of current weather conditions, growth of urban or other developed landscapes, the status of wetlands habitat, coastal erosion processes, the location of oil spills, and the presence and extent of sea grass beds.

Remote sensing can be particularly valuable for assessing relatively large areas or observing inaccessible areas.

Ocean features, such as large-scale circulation patterns, currents, river turbidity, and water quality can be visualized by highlighting variations in color and temperature. Use of remote sensing techniques are becoming increasingly accessible and cost-effective thanks to the rapid advancements in desktop computer technology, information networks, and improved availability of remotely sensed data and information.
Text source: NOAA
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External links on remote sensing