REMOTE SENSING AND

GIS IN TRANSPORTATION
DEVELOPMENT
M.Tech( Transportation Engineering )
 Definition
Remote sensing is an interesting and exploratory
science
Remote sensing is the science of acquiring
information about the Earth's surface without
actually being in contact with it
Components of Remote
Sensing
The methods of collection, processing &
interpretation of remotely sensed data are very
adverse, imaging systems have the following
essential components:
Energy Source or Illumination
Interaction with the Target
Recording of Energy by the sensors
Transmission, Reception and processing
Interpretation and Analysis
Passive Remote Sensing
The sun provides a very convenient source of
energy for remote sensing.
The sun's energy is either reflected, as it is for
visible wavelengths, or absorbed and then re-
emitted, as it is for thermal infrared wavelengths
Remote sensing systems which measure energy
that is naturally available are called Passive
Sensors.
Active Remote Sensing
Active sensors provide their own energy source for
illumination.
The sensor emits radiation which is directed toward
the target to be investigated.
The radiation reflected from that target is detected
and measured by the sensor.
Advantages for active sensors include the ability to
obtain measurements anytime, regardless of the
time of day or season.
 Passive & Active
Remote Sensing

Passive Remote Sensing uses Active Remote Sensing uses

Sun as the source of energy microwaves, laser fluorosensor
and a synthetic aperture radar.
Interaction with the Target
As energy travels from its source to the target, it
will come in contact with & interact with the
atmosphere it passes through.
This interaction may take place a second time as
the energy travels from the target to the sensor
A number of interactions are possible when
electromagnetic energy encounters matter,
whether solid, liquid or gas.
Interaction with the Target
Radiation may be transmitted
Radiation may be absorbed by a substance
Radiation may be emitted by a substance (All
matter above absolute zero, 0K, emits energy)
Radiation may be scattered
Radiation may be reflected
FAQS
1. What are the components of RMS?
2. Difference between active and passive remote
sensing ?
3. Types of interaction bodies?
References
1. ucalgary.ca
2. www.readorrefer.in
3. www.nrcan.gc.ca
4. en.wikipedia.org
5. nptel.ac.in
6. http://www.iirs.gov.in/