Introduction Definition and Objectives Historical Background International Space Law Advantages of Space-Based Observations Sources of Information on Remote Sensing Data and Interpretation Methods Review Questions Physical Principles of Remote Sensing Fundamentals of Remote Sensing Signal The Electromagnetic Spectrum Terms and Units of Measurement Electromagnetic Radiation Laws Spectral Signatures in the Solar Spectrum The Thermal Infrared Domain The Microwave Region Atmospheric Interactions Review Questions Sensors and Remote Sensing Satellites Types of sensors Resolution of a Sensor System Passive Sensors Active Sensors Satellite Remote Sensing Missions Review Questions Basis for the Interpretation of Remote Sensing Images Constrains in Using RS Data Types of Interpretation Organization of a RS Project Interpretation Phase Presentation of Study Cases Review Questions Visual Interpretation Characteristics of Photographic Images Identification of Geographic Features in the Images Criteria for Visual Interpretation Elements of Visual Analysis Digital Image Processing (I): Enhancements and Corrections Structure of a Digital Image Media and Data Organization Digital Image Processing Equipment General File Operations Visual Enhancements Image Corrections Digital Image Processing (II): Generation of Thematic Information Calculation of Continuous Variables Digital Image Classification echniques of Multitemporal Analysis Analysis of Landscape Patterns Accuracy Assessment Relevance of Validating Results Methods to Estimate Accuracy Sources of Error Sampling Design Gathering Information Measuring Error in Interval-Scale Variables Measuring Error in Classified Images Verification of Multitemporal Analysis Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems The Need of GIS Trends in GIS and RS Development Common Technical Requirements GIS as Input for Remote Sensing Interpretation Remote Sensing as Input for GIS Integration of Satellite Images and GIS References Appendices Acronyms used in this textbook Sources of images Answers to review questions.