An example of Earth observation includes satellite imagery capturing changes in land cover over time, such as urban expansion, deforestation, or agricultural development. These observations provide valuable data for environmental monitoring, urban planning and natural resource management.
Satellites equipped with optical or radar sensors can detect and measure these changes, allowing researchers, policymakers and scientists to study Earth’s dynamic processes and human impacts on the environment.
Earth observation refers to the systematic collection and analysis of data on the Earth’s surface, atmosphere, oceans and ecosystems. This includes monitoring natural phenomena such as weather conditions, climate change indicators, geological processes and ecological dynamics.
Earth observation involves the use of satellite sensors, ground-based instruments, airborne platforms and remote sensing technologies to collect comprehensive data on various environmental parameters and phenomena.
Examples of Earth observation satellites include the NASA/NOAA Goes series, which monitors weather and climate patterns over the Americas, the European Space Agency’s Sentinel satellites, dedicated to environmental monitoring and disaster management worldwide, and commercial satellites like those operated by Planet Labs, which provide high-resolution images for a variety of applications including agriculture, forestry and urban planning.
These satellites use advanced sensors to capture data across multiple spectral bands, providing insights into Earth dynamics and supporting decision-making processes.
Earth-based observations refer to the collection and analysis of data carried out from ground-based platforms such as observatories, monitoring stations and field campaigns. These observations complement satellite data by providing ground truth measurements, validation of remote sensing data, and detailed information on local environmental conditions.
Land-based observations include measurements of air quality, soil properties, water quality, biodiversity assessments and meteorological parameters, providing critical information for scientific research, environmental monitoring and policy formulation.
The use of Earth observation encompasses a wide range of applications and benefits across various sectors. It supports environmental monitoring by tracking deforestation, monitoring pollution levels, assessing biodiversity, and detecting changes in land use and land cover.
Earth observation data helps disaster management efforts by providing early warning systems for natural hazards such as floods, hurricanes and wildfires. It also contributes to climate research by monitoring greenhouse gas emissions, sea level rise, ice cover changes and temperature variations. Additionally, Earth observation supports urban planning, agriculture, transportation, public health, and national security through informed decision-making based on accurate and timely environmental data