CP6531 - Introduction to Remote Sensing

Course Description

The use of satellite derived information is playing an expanding and important role in GIS technology. Mapping fundamentals, similarly, provide the framework for the effective use of digital geographic information. The course will introduce the students to cartographic theory, multi-spectral data and the procedures by which information is enhanced and extracted from the digital imagery and other remotely sensed data, and the broad range of applications to which this information can be applied.

Mode

The course consists of lectures and computer system exercises and examples. The software system used is ERDAS IMAGINE.

Prerequisite

Introduction to GIS or consent of instructors

Grading

Course grades are based on exams, a short research paper, and a final project presentation. Two exams will be given, each worth 20% of the final grade. The first exam covers cartographic fundamentals and the second exam covers remote sensing/image processing fundamentals. A short paper (<10 pages) is required, contributing another 20% to the grade. The topic shall be the application of remote sensing to an application area of interest to the student. Finally, a class project contributes the remaining 40%. Students will take a raw satellite image and apply the techniques learned in class to generate a land-cover classification map for 2 dates and a resulting change detection map. Presentations will be made by each student during the final class period.

Texts

• Jensen, John,  "Introduction to Digital Image Processing: A Remote Sensing Perspective," Prentice-Hall

• (On Reserve) Star, Jeffrey, et. al., "Integration of Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing," Cambridge University Press

• (Optional)  Snyder, John, "Map Projections - A Working Manual," U.S. Geological Survey Professional Paper 1395

Topics Covered

• Course Introduction - The Earth Model/Reference Ellipsoids, Issues and Examples

• Map projection fundamentals - Common Map Projections, Mapping Issues and GIS/Imagery

• Geographic Coordinates, Transformations

• Manual Photo Interpretation

• Electromagnetic Theory and Imagery - Imaging Sensors & Image Resolution, Image Data Formats

• Image Enhancement: Spectral, Spatial

• Geometric Correction - System Exercises

• Classification:   Supervised and Unsupervised

• Error Sources, Accuracy Assessment - Post Processing

• Integration with GIS  (Raster/Vector) - System Implementation Issues, Spatial Modeling

• Ortho-photo generation demonstration and  supervised project interaction