It should be noted that the analysis, summarized in Figure 4, requires a knowledge of fundamental image processing methods only. An advanced background in agriculture, chemistry, physics, or earth sciences, while helpful, is not a requirement. Spectral chemometric analysis of the crop signature shown in the Full Image View window of Figure 3. The red dots are the elements of the observed signature. The black trace is the synthetic spectrum calculated to match the red spectrum.
Gray traces are the end members such as moisture, cellulose, starch and dust.
The blue end member is cellulose. Estimates of the concentration of pesticides are possible. Summary Advanced 21st Century technology, called Hyperspectral Imaging, has the potential to revolutionize the management of the Earth's crop assets. Commercialization of the worldwide markets will yield unprecedented returns on investments. The fundamental tools carried by space-borne satellites are soon to be in place.