About this Course

In this self-paced course, you'll learn the underlying science behind how remote sensing works and the basic functional characteristics of Earth observing satellites and sensors. You will explore the kinds of satellite remote sensing data that are available, advantages and disadvantages of remote sensing, and some basic tools to visualize data for various application areas such as ecological conservation, water resources management, agriculture and land management, air quality monitoring and disaster mitigation and response. By the end of the course, you'll be equipped to begin your journey using NASA's no-cost, open-access remote sensing data and resources. Earn a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

Course Outcomes

1. Explore ways that satellite remote sensing observations are used to study Earth's systems.
2. Recognize which properties of Earth's systems can be observed from space.
3. Examine how satellite sensors measure electromagnetic radiation to derive geophysical parameters within the Earth-atmosphere system.
4. Identify the range of remote sensing data product levels available as illustrated by diverse case study examples.
5. Identify basic methods to work with different levels of remotely sensed data.
6. Recognize common strengths and weaknesses of using remote sensing for Earth observations.
7. Use the NASA Worldview webtool to access and view a remote sensing dataset for a selected region and time frame.

Course Outline

This course is appropriate for anyone interested in learning more about remote sensing. Earn a NASA ARSET certificate of completion by completing the lesson modules, a hands on guided activity to visualize remote sensing data, and a final Knowledge Check quiz:

1. Why Earth Observations
2. What is Remote Sensing?
3. How Does Remote Sensing Work?
4. How can I Use Remote Sensing Data?
5. Practice with Worldview
6. Knowledge Check quiz

How to Get Started

• Click the external link to access the NASA ARSET learning management system.
• Create a free account if you do not already have one.
• Enroll in the Fundamentals of Remote Sensing training course and complete the brief registration questionnaire.
• Begin exploring how we use remote sensing to study Earth!