Physics of Remote Sensing - 615.769

This course exposes the student to the physical principles underlying satellite observations of Earth by optical, infrared, and microwave sensors, as well as techniques for extracting geophysical information from remote sensor observations. Topics will include spacecraft orbit considerations, fundamental concepts of radiometry, electromagnetic wave interactions with land and ocean surfaces and Earth’s atmosphere, radiative transfer and atmospheric effects, and overviews of some important satellite sensors and observations. Examples from selected sensors will be used to illustrate the information extraction process and applications of the data for environmental monitoring, oceanography, meteorology, and climate studies.