6. Major Remote Sensing Systems

Objectives

This learning object introduces Unit 6, ‘Major Remote Sensing Systems’

This is the sixth unit in the module “Remote Sensing for Earth Observation”. The objective of this unit is to introduce the principal remote sensing satellite programs. Following an overview of how the major satellite systems operate, each of the major programs is presented.

  1. Introduction to Unit 6
  2. Overview of Satellite Systems
  3. The Landsat program
  4. The SPOT program
  5. Further Major Satellite Systems

 

Overview of Satellite Systems’ provides an introduction to the chain of technologies which are required in order to operate a sensor on an orbiting satellite and to effectively receive and deliver these data to users.

‘The Landsat Program’ provides an overview of the hugely important Landsat series of 7 successful satellites, 2 of which are currently operational(Landsat 7 and 8). The learning object explains the principal characteristics of the sensors carried by the Landsat satellites and the data which can be obtained from them.

‘The SPOT Program’ provides an overview of the SPOT series of 7 Ā satellites, 2 of which areĀ in operation(SPOT 6 and 7) . The SPOT sensors have some distinct characteristics which differ from the Landsat series and which therefore offer different data features and application opportunities.

‘Further Major Satellite Systems’ provides, more briefly, an overview of the AVHRR, ENVISAT(now defunct-lost in 2012), Terra and Aqua satellite systems and lists additional earth observation satellites and data sources.Ā The Copernicus Sentinel Missions provides an overview of the European Space Agency new family of missions which started to be launched in 2014 and will continue to be launched until 2020.

There are practical and reflective activities designed to reinforce students’ learning associated with each of the learning objects.

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