Learning Module 6
Satellites and Selecting/Acquiring Data
Introduction
In this module we will learn about some of the many different types of Earth observing satellites. Earth observation satellites are designed for environmental monitoring, meteorology and mapping. The ability to observe and record data from space has dramatically improved our understanding of the Earth and its environment. Earth observing satellites have been in place since the 1970s and serve to highlight environmental changes. Satellite based sensors also allow scientists to gather data globally in regions that would otherwise be too remote or inaccessible to gather data.
Learning Outcomes
- Become familiar with a variety of Earth observing satellites
- Learn about the Landsat program and the various sensors on the Landsat satellites.
- Learn about commercial Earth observing satellites
- How to select and obtain appropriate data
Readings
Explore the following links:
- NASA Worldview - Interactive interface for browsing full-resolution, global, near real-time satellite imagery.
- Google Earth Engine: Timelapse - Explore different views into this global timelapse built from global, annual composites of Landsat satellite images.
Presentations and Content
- Earth Observing Satellites Overview
- Landsat
- Other Earth Observing Satellites
- Commercial
- Selecting and Obtaining Data