How is Remote Sensing Useful? NCSCOS 5.05

Earth’s Changing Surface Earth’s surface is always evolving! Changes in Earth caused naturally by plate movement and weathering. Earth is also changed by human activity: cities and suburbs grow, shorelines are changed by industrial growth. Forests are cleared and planted.

Topographic Maps Show location and elevation of natural and artificial features of a region Created using survey techniques and SATELLITE IMAGERY

Using Maps Topography is the study of Earth’s natural and artificial features. Topographic maps use colors, lines, and symbols to differentiate between features. A key or legend accompanies map to explain symbols.

Topographic Maps Studying of earth’s features by making a map These maps show physical features using color, lines and symbols Elevation is shown using contour lines The closer the lines the steeper the elevation! Contour lines

Topographic Maps Two dimensional representation of Earth. Most important function is to show elevation. Lines are called “contour lines”; contour lines connect areas with the same elevation

Urban Sprawl Urban Sprawl is the spreading out of city features such as neighborhoods and shopping districts. Scientist compare images of urban areas to the same area 20- 30 years ago. Allows city planners to predict or manage city growth. Also helps protect natural areas before they are damaged by urban sprawl.

FACT In 2002, the United States lost an average of 2 acres of farmland to URBAN SPRAWL every minute. Urban sprawl caused the loss of 6 MILLION acres of farmland between 1992 and 1997.

Remote sensing and Resource Management Allows forest or wildlife professionals to manage resources Show patterns of logging and forest growth. Ensures forests are cut down too quickly. GPS also allows scientists to track animals and monitor their survival.

Limits… Satellites can not YET show very small images clearly (GROUND TRUTHING used) Satellites can indicated elevation changes but can not show precise elevations (GROUND TRUTHING CAN) Satellites can show large or small areas.