What is the process of collecting data from a distance, such as satellite imagery?

The process of collecting data from a distance, such as satellite imagery, is referred to as remote sensing. This technique involves gathering information about an object or area without making physical contact. Remote sensing utilizes various technologies, including satellites and aerial sensors, to capture data across different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.

This method is crucial in various applications, such as environmental monitoring, land use planning, and disaster management, enabling the analysis of large areas efficiently. Remote sensing allows for the collection of data over extensive geographical areas in near-real-time, which can be vital for tracking changes in land cover, vegetation health, or urban development.

In contrast, data mining involves analyzing large datasets to discover patterns or relationships, ground surveying is a method of collecting data on-site using precise measurements, and geospatial analysis refers to evaluating spatial data to derive insights or make decisions. While all these processes play important roles in geospatial sciences, they do not pertain specifically to the act of collecting data from a distance like remote sensing does.