Choosing the Right Satellite Imagery: A (Very) Simple Guide

Have you ever felt overwhelmed when trying to pick the right satellite imagery? You’re not alone. Selecting the right image might seem daunting, but with a bit of practice and proper guidance, you can make this process a breeze. A straightforward guide can be found in Horning (2004; this post is highly based on it), and here, I just want to go a little deeper into it, from more general considerations to having basic knowledge of some imagery features.

1. Seek Advice from Experienced Users. When faced with the vast array of image types, it's easy to feel lost. However, there's a simple solution: talk to others who have tackled similar challenges. For instance, engaging with online remote sensing communities may provide valuable insights. Also, join email list servers, connect with universities, or reach out to organizations that work with satellite imagery. These users can offer guidance and recommendations to help you choose the most suitable imagery.
2. Leverage Online Resources. The internet serves as an abundant repository of remote sensing resources. Digital platforms of agencies such as the USGS, NASA, or ESA, and universities (e.g., The Earth Observation Group at the Colorado School of Mines — Payne Institute for Public Policy) could represent valuable repositories of pertinent information. Of course, understanding…