What is satellite imagery used for in GIS applications?

Satellite imagery plays a crucial role in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications, primarily because it provides high-resolution pictures of the Earth's surface taken from space. This imagery serves as a foundational data layer that can be utilized for a variety of mapping and analysis purposes. The ability to capture large geographical areas in a single image allows for the examination of land use, vegetation cover, urban development, and environmental changes over time.

When incorporated into GIS, satellite imagery can be overlaid with other data types, such as vector layers and attribute data, to enrich analysis. For instance, it allows for visualizing spatial patterns, making it easier to assess and understand the landscape, identify features, and monitor changes. Analysts can apply different techniques, like change detection or classification, using satellite data to extract meaningful information pertinent to various sectors including agriculture, forestry, urban planning, and environmental management.

Other options, while they represent important aspects of GIS or related technologies, do not capture the primary purpose of satellite imagery in the same way. Creating three-dimensional models, analyzing demographic data, or developing virtual reality environments are more specialized applications that may utilize satellite imagery as a data source but do not define its core purpose.