OVERVIEW
This course provides an introduction to the use of remotely sensed data in geographical /environmental research.  Remote sensing is the science of acquiring data using techniques that do not require actual contact with the object or area being observed.  The different sensors used to collect this information, and the interpretation techniques vary quite widely, and are being developed at an astounding rate.  In this course, we will focus on the interpretation and applications of data from spaceborne imaging systems (eg: Landsat MSS, Landsat TM, Quickbird and SPOT).
The number of disciplines which utilize remotely sensed data continues to increase.  Geologists, geographers, climatologists, and ecologists have all adapted remote sensing techniques to their respective research.  We will briefly discuss many different uses of remotely sensed data, but focus on natural resources management and ecological applications.
Lecture sessions will generally be used for the discussion of fundamental topics and theory.  In addition, small break out groups and discussions will also be used within the lecture sessions. Laboratory sessions are designed to provide hands-on experience in the processing and interpretation of remotely sensed information.

Note: Knowing all the commands of Idrisi will make you no more of an Image Analyst than will knowing all the commands of Microsoft Word make you an author! (adapted from Jay Morgan, Towson State University)

COURSE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:
The overall goal is for students to develop a comprehensive understanding of remote sensing principles and methods and their applications in geography and environmental science. Secondary objectives are: development of strategies for incorporating remote sensing in students’ research and related areas; and introduction to some practical, hands-on skills for processing, analysis, display, and discussion of remote sensing data with applications.

SPECIFIC LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
At the end of this course, a student will be able to:
•    Explain what remote sensing is (and is not), outline its history and evolution, and display appropriate vocabulary in explaining the physical principles upon which it is based, i.e., electromagnetic radiation and its interaction with matter.
•    Describe and explain the broad range of remote sensing techniques, instruments, data acquisition formats, systems, and platforms that have applications in geographical and environmental sciences, including black and white, color, and color-infrared film and digital photography/imaging; multispectral sensors; thermal infrared imaging/thermography; and ground, aerial, and satellite/space platforms.
•    Outline and explain the basic principles of acquisition, storage, transmission, processing, and analysis of remotely sensed data, to include the derivation of vegetation and soil indices, unsupervised and supervised image classification and spectral signature development, shape and pattern recognition.
•    Outline and explain how remote sensing has been applied in the past, and may be applied in the future, to geographical and environmental sciences.
•    Display a working knowledge of the historic and current literature of remote sensing, including the principle journals publishing in the field.
•    Formulate strategies for incorporating remote sensing into the student’s research or area of interest (and in their careers) and carry out such research independently.