What does remote sensing involve in GIS?

Remote sensing in GIS primarily involves acquiring data using satellite or aerial imagery. This technique allows for the collection of information about the Earth's surface without making physical contact. Remote sensing technologies utilize various sensors mounted on satellites or aircraft to capture data across different wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum. This data provides valuable insights into land use, vegetation cover, water bodies, and urban development, among other geographical features.

By leveraging remote sensing, GIS applications can analyze and interpret large areas efficiently, making it easier for scientists, planners, and decision-makers to visualize changes over time and assess various environmental conditions. The ability to obtain data from above the Earth's surface enables the monitoring of events such as deforestation, urban expansion, and natural disasters, providing critical information for effective management and planning strategies.