Remote Sensing: It's Not Just for the Remote Sensing Specialist Anymore ...
Channel: Dutton Institute
Date: 28/02/2013

Have you noticed?? The Geospatial Revolution is closely tied to new capabilities of earth observing sensors, as well as greater access to their data.

The collection of remotely sensed data from a variety of platforms, including aircraft, commercial satellites, ground-based vehicles, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS), is increasing exponentially. Many of the sensors, such as lidar, thermal, multispectral and hyperspectral systems, have been used for years in scientific research and military applications. They are now becoming widely available for domestic, civilian and commercial use.

Coupled with greater access to these data, the power of remote sensing analysis is more widely available than ever before. Visualization tools, such as Google Earth and Microsoft Bing Maps, can be accessed by virtually anyone with a computer or mobile device. Advanced Web mapping and Web-based analytic tools are available for advanced users.

The knowledge, skills and abilities needed to leverage remote sensing comprise a deeply specialized body of knowledge. Organizations such as the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) suggest in their 10-year Industry Forecast that the educational community is not providing graduates with sufficient training in georeferencing, geometry, lidar, photogrammetry and geospatial applications. Penn State's Online Geospatial Education program is responding to this challenge with an expanded remote sensing curriculum, including one introductory course, two intermediate courses, and two advanced seminars.

Join faculty members Karen Schuckman and Mike Renslow, both past-presidents of ASPRS, and Dr. Jay Parrish to learn how Penn State's course offerings can prepare you to answer the growing demand for remote sensing skills.
Who should view?

• New, midcareer and experienced geospatial professionals
• Students and graduates entering the geospatial industry
• Professionals curious about the direction of remote sensing as a component of the geospatial "industry," and where remote sensing fits in to the job market