ABSTRACT

This new textbook on remote sensing and digital image processing of natural resources includes numerous, practical problem-solving exercises and applications of sensors and satellite systems using remote sensing data collection resources, and emphasizes the free and open-source platform R. It explains basic concepts of remote sensing and multidisciplinary applications using R language and R packages, by engaging students in learning theory through hands-on, real-life projects. All chapters are structured with learning objectives, computation, questions, solved exercises, resources, and research suggestions.

Features

  • Explains the theory of passive and active remote sensing and its applications in water, soil, vegetation, and atmosphere.
  • Covers data analysis in the free and open-source R platform, which makes remote sensing accessible to anyone with a computer.
  • Includes case studies from different environments with free software algorithms and an R toolset for active learning and a learn-by-doing approach.
  • Provides hands-on exercises at the end of each chapter and encourages readers to understand the potential and the limitations of the environments, remote sensing targets, and process.
  • Explores current trends and developments in remote sensing in homework assignments with data to further explore the use of free multispectral remote sensing data, including very high spatial resolution data sources for target recognition with image processing techniques.

While the focus of the book is on environmental and agriculture engineering, it can be applied widely to a variety of subjects such as physical, natural, and social sciences. Students in upper-level undergraduate or graduate programs, taking courses in remote sensing, geoprocessing, civil and environmental engineering, geosciences, environmental sciences, electrical engineering, biology, and hydrology will also benefit from the learning objectives in the book. Professionals who use remote sensing and digital processing will also find this text enlightening.

chapter 4|28 pages

Remote Sensing of Vegetation

chapter 5|44 pages

Remote Sensing of Water

chapter 7|42 pages

Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere