Remote Sensing for Geoscientists

Book excerpt: This third edition of the bestselling Remote Sensing for Geologists: A Guide to Image Interpretation is now titled Remote Sensing for Geoscientists: Image Analysis and Integration. The title change reflects that this edition applies to a broad spectrum of geosciences, not just geology; stresses that remote sensing has become more than photointerpretation; and emphasizes integration of multiple remote sensing technologies to solve Earth science problems. The text reviews systems and applications, explains what to look for when analyzing imagery, and provides abundant case histories to illustrate the integration and application of these tools. See What’s New in the Second Edition: Broader coverage to include integration of multiple remote sensing technologies Expanded with significant new illustrations in color and reviews of new satellites and sensors Analysis of imagery for geobotanical remote sensing, remote geochemistry, modern analogs to ancient environments, and astrogeology The book covers how to initiate a project, including determining the objective, choosingthe right tools, and selecting imagery. It describes techniques used in geologic mapping and mineral and hydrocarbon exploration, image analysis used in mine development and petroleum exploitation, site evaluation, groundwaterdevelopment, surface water monitoring, geothermal resource exploitation, and logistics. It also demonstrates how imageryis used to establish environmental baselines; monitor land, air, and water quality; maphazards; and determine the effects of global warming. The many examples of geologic mapping on other planets and the moon highlight how to analyze planetary surface processes, map stratigraphy, and locate resources. The book then examines remote sensing and the public, geographic information systems and Google Earth, and how imagery is used by the media, in the legal system, in public relations, and by individuals. Readers should come away with a good understanding of what is involved in image analysis and interpretation and should be ableto recognize and identify geologic features of interest. Having read this book, they should be able to effectively use imagery in petroleum, mining, groundwater, surface water, engineering, and environmental projects.