Which statement is true about remote sensing systems?

Which statement is true about remote sensing systems?

• A. They always require both a sensor and a platform
• B. They never require a platform
• C. They require only ground-based equipment
• D. They operate without energy input

Answer: (A)

Remote sensing works by gathering information about a target from a distance through energy that has interacted with it. To do this, you need a sensor to detect and record that energy and a platform to carry and position the sensor so you can observe the target from the right vantage point. The energy involved can come from outside, like sunlight reflected off the surface for passive sensing, or be emitted or generated by the system itself for active sensing such as radar or LiDAR. Because of this, a sensor and a platform are essential components in every remote sensing setup. Ground-based sensors still rely on a platform (the ground or a tripod), while airborne and spaceborne systems use aircraft or satellites as platforms. The idea that remote sensing could operate without energy input isn’t correct, since it depends on detecting energy, whether it’s solar energy or energy produced by the sensing system.

Remote sensing works by gathering information about a target from a distance through energy that has interacted with it. To do this, you need a sensor to detect and record that energy and a platform to carry and position the sensor so you can observe the target from the right vantage point. The energy involved can come from outside, like sunlight reflected off the surface for passive sensing, or be emitted or generated by the system itself for active sensing such as radar or LiDAR. Because of this, a sensor and a platform are essential components in every remote sensing setup. Ground-based sensors still rely on a platform (the ground or a tripod), while airborne and spaceborne systems use aircraft or satellites as platforms. The idea that remote sensing could operate without energy input isn’t correct, since it depends on detecting energy, whether it’s solar energy or energy produced by the sensing system.