Geog474 - Intro Env RS

Remote sensing can be defined as the science of observation from a distance. It departs from in situ data collection because the sensor is remote from the phenomenon of interest. Electromagnetic radiation is transformed into information about the Earth-atmosphere system to derive geophysical parameters to monitor and model natural (e.g., deforestation) and cultural (e.g., land use conversion) processes.

This course is designed to introduce students to remote sensing of the environment by discussing the fundamental characteristics of electromagnetic radiation, energy interactions with the atmosphere and Earth’s surface, and ways to extract meaningful geophysical information from remote sensing data to solve environmental problems. Digital image processing techniques and algorithms involved in the measurement, analysis and interpretation of electromagnetic energy collected by remote sensing instruments are demonstrated through in-class demonstrations and hands on exercises using the image processing system called Leica's ERDAS Imagine. The goal is for students to develop an understanding of inventorying, mapping, and monitoring the Earth-atmosphere system and its resources through the measurement, analysis, and interpretation of electromagnetic energy emanating from features of interest.

Class Meetings
Class will meet every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:10 to 11:00am in the GIS Teaching Classroom (Penny Hall, Room 005).

Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites. However, prior familiarity with elementary statistical methods and computing in the windows and UNIX environment are useful.

Jensen, John R. 2007. Remote Sensing of the Environment: An Earth Resource Perspective, second edition. Prentice Hall, New Jersey. Required
Additional readings will be announced and listed in Mycourses on the Course Calendar and/or Assignment homepage.

Grading
Grading is based upon total points accumulated by the end of the semester. Late assignments are accepted for credit as indicated below under the class policies' section.

Assignments	Total Points
4 Quizzes (50 points each)	200
4-6 In-class and 4-6 Take-home Exercises (10-25 points each)	200
Class Participation	25
2- 250 word article summary	25
TOTAL	450

Class Policies
Exercises will be accepted late, however, a deduction of 1 points will be applied for each day the assignment is late. An exercise is considered late if it is not turned in within 24 hours after the due date. Exercises may be turned in on or before the last day of classes on Wednesday, December 6th. Quizzes may be rescheduled only if Instructor is given prior notice and an additional time is arranged before the quiz date. The makeup exam may be essay.