Remote Sensing Principles

Remote Sensing Principles is designed as an introductory course for beginners who want to learn how to use Earth Observation data and technologies. It also serves those seeking a basic understanding of satellite image data acquisition and manipulation using freely available data and open source programs. The course provides an overview of fundamental concepts and the physical and theoretical foundations of remote sensing, with particular emphasis on the electromagnetic spectrum and its relevance for image acquisition.

Remote sensing relies on detecting reflected or emitted energy across the electromagnetic spectrum using sensors mounted on airborne to spaceborne platforms. As a basis for image processing and interpretation, students will acquire knowledge of atmospheric interactions with electromagnetic energy and the spectral responses of natural and man-made features such as vegetation, water, soil, and built environments.

The course is structured as lectures with accompanying practical sessions with exercises. These exercises introduce students to image preprocessing, enhancement, compositing, and classification, including accuracy assessment. Students engage with selected readings and assignments to deepen their understanding and build their capacity to conduct assessments of real world case studies across diverse domains that rely on remote sensing data. They conclude with a project demonstrating the knowledge and skills acquired in the course.

Progressive specialisation: A1N (has only first‐cycle course/s as entry requirements)

Education level: Master's level

Admission requirements: 5 credits in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) or Geographic Information Technology or Geostatistics. In addition, upper secondary level English 6 or English level 2. An equivalence assessment can be made.

Selection: Selection is usually based on your grade point average from upper secondary school or the number of credit points from previous university studies, or both.