Remote Sensing

Section 2.3

Landsat Satellite

The process of gathering data about Earth using satellites, airplanes, or ships is called remote sensing

Landsat satellites record reflected wavelengths of energy from Earth’s surface; equipped with a moving mirror; images are converted by computer

TOPEX/Poseidon

TOPEX/Poseidon uses radar to map the ocean floor; Topography Experiment; also used to estimate ocean depths, study tidal changes, and ocean currents

Sea Beam

Also used to map the ocean floorLocated on a ship not a satelliteRelies on sonar – the use of sound waves

to detect and measure underwater objectsUsed by fishing fleets, offshore drilling

companies, etc…

Global Positioning System

GPS is a satellite navigation system that allows users to locate their approximate position on Earth

27 satellites cover the entire Earth simultaneously

Can also help detect earthquakes, create maps, and track wildlife

Geographic Information System

Describe GIS