Comparing Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies
Satellite technology has drastically evolved and has enabled us to capture images from space that can be used in various industries. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies use these images for various applications. Remote sensing collects data from a distance, while GIS analyzes the data collected by remote sensors.
Remote Sensing
Remote sensing is defined as the acquisition of data and information without physically being in contact with the object of study. With the use of satellites, remote sensing collects data on a range of phenomena such as temperature, rainfall, vegetation, and land-use change. Applications of remote sensing range from agriculture to urban planning.
Remote sensing technology enables the capture of images with different spectral bands, such as visible, infrared and thermal. These images can be used to identify changes over time, detect natural disasters, and monitor environmental changes.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
GIS technology, on the other hand, is a computer-based system that analyzes and interprets the data collected by remote sensors. It can integrate data from different sources to create maps, understand patterns and predict trends. GIS technology can be used for urban planning, environmental management, and disaster management.
GIS technology enables spatial analysis by layering different data on a map. These layers may include population density, land use, topography, and climate data. GIS technology can convert data into information that can be used to make informed decisions.
Comparison
| Remote Sensing | GIS |
|---|---|
| Captures data | Analyzes data |
| Can analyze changes over time | Can integrate data from various sources |
| Uses spectral bands to capture images | Layers spatial data on a map |
| Less expensive in data collection | Expensive software and hardware |
| Requires specialized training to interpret data | Requires specialized training for software use |
Both remote sensing and GIS technologies are complemented and combined to create a more comprehensive analysis of geographical data. Remote sensing captures data and GIS analyzes it for more detailed interpretations.
When it comes to data collection, remote sensing is less expensive compared to GIS, which requires expensive software and hardware. Remote sensing images are easier to capture but require specialized training to interpret them. GIS, on the other hand, requires specialized training for software use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, remote sensing and GIS technologies have revolutionized the way we collect and analyze data to make informed decisions. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, and the best approach is to combine both for a more comprehensive analysis. Remote sensing captures data while GIS analyzes it, making it difficult to choose one against the other.
We hope this comparison has given you insight into the differences between remote sensing and GIS technologies.
References
"Remote Sensing." National Aeronautics and Space Administration, NASA, 29 Apr. 2021, https://www.nasa.gov/centers/langley/news/factsheets/RemoteSensing.html.
"Geographic Information Systems (GIS)." U.S. Geological Survey, USGS, 18 Mar. 2021, https://www.usgs.gov/faqs/what-geographic-information-systems-gis-and-what-they-used.