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Earth Observation Systems - Science & Technology Notes

EARTH OBSERVATION SYSTEMS

 
 
 
Earth Observation Systems (EOS) is a NASA program that uses scientific instruments and artificial satellites to observe the Earth\'s land, oceans, biosphere, and atmosphere
Earth observation satellites can see things that are not visible from the ground, even at the altitudes where aircraft travel. They monitor greenhouse gases and other climate indicators and help analyze the health of the Earth\'s ecosystem. 
 
Remote sensing is a technology that studies and observes the Earth\'s systems and their dynamics. Remote sensing data, especially satellite images, are used to observe and study the Earth from space. 
 
The data collected from remote sensing is often processed in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). GIS allows the visualization, analysis, interpretation, and query of geographical data
 
Earth Observation Applications
  • The Earth Observation Satellites operated by ISRO have effectively implemented numerous practical applications across the nation.
  • At both national and regional levels, a substantial user base relies on space-based data for diverse purposes.
  • Key missions within the IRS satellite series, such as Cartosat-1 & 2, Resourcesat-1 & 2, Oceansat-1 & 2, Risat-1, Megha-Tropiques, SARAL, Scatsat, INSAT series, and several other satellites, have facilitated distinctive uses of space-based imaging.
  • ISRO is on the cusp of launching the next generation of these satellites as part of its ongoing missions to ensure a continuous advantage for users through space data, promoting sustainable development and effective governance.
  • India\'s space program is recognized for its focus on practical applications and the substantial advantages these programs offer the country.
  • The societal services extended by Earth Observation, SATCOM, and the recent NavIC satellite constellation across various domains of national development, encompassing tele-education and telemedicine, stand as prime illustrations of India\'s application-focused approach in space programs.
  • At the national, state, and local levels, projects employing Remote Sensing applications are executed through a well-established National Natural Resources Management System (NNRMS) architecture in the country.
  • India\'s space program framework stresses applications, with active involvement from government, academia, and industry stakeholders.
  • Over recent years, the Indian Remote Sensing Satellite constellation has made considerable progress in effectively applying satellite data across various operational domains.
  • Notably, these include Agricultural Crops Inventory, Water Resources Information System, Groundwater Prospects, Forest Working Plans, Biodiversity and Coral Mapping, Potential Fishing Zones, Ocean State Forecasts, Rural and Urban Development, Inventory & Monitoring of Glacial Lakes / Water Bodies, NavIC-based Location Services, and Disaster Management Support Programme, including Cyclone and Floods Mapping & Monitoring, Landslide Mapping & Monitoring, Agricultural Drought, Forest Fire, Earthquakes, Extreme Weather Monitoring, and experimental Forecasts, among others.
  • Geospatial technologies, remote sensing, satellite communication, and navigation systems are revolutionizing natural resource management, resulting in diverse data and information products beneficial to society.
  • These technologies are assisting planners and decision-makers in offering unique services tailored to people\'s needs.
  • Platforms like Web Geoportals and mobile technologies (such as Bhuvan Geoportal) are being extensively used by governments to disseminate information services and solutions across all administrative levels, proving highly effective.
  • The government system has successfully harnessed these technologies for the greater good of the populace.
  • ISRO collaborates closely with central and state government departments, industries, and academia to deliver optimal solutions for efficient Natural Resources management, support services for governance, and societal development. This concerted effort has yielded several crucial applications that are increasingly focused on people\'s needs
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Previous Year Questions

1.Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2010)

The satellite Oceansat-2 launched by India helps in

  1. estimating the water vapour content in the atmosphere.
  2. predicting the onset of monsoons.
  3. monitoring the pollution of coastal waters.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

 2.In which of the following activities are Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) satellites used? (UPSC 2015)

1) Assessment of crop productivity

2) Locating groundwater resources

3) Mineral exploration

4) Telecommunications

5) Traffic studies

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 4 and 5 only

(c) 1 and 2 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Answer: (a)

3.Which one of the following satellites is to be launched from India in 1996? (UPSC 1996)

(a) IRS-P2

(b) IRS-P3

(c) IRS-EN

(d) IRS-ID

Answer: (b)
 
 
 
Frequently Asked Questions on Earth Observation Systems
 

What are Earth observation systems?

    • Earth observation systems consist of satellites and ground-based sensors that collect data about Earth\'s surface, atmosphere, and oceans, providing valuable information for monitoring and understanding our planet.

What is the purpose of Earth observation systems?

    • The primary goal is to monitor changes in the environment, climate, natural resources, weather patterns, land use, and human activities for various applications like disaster management, agriculture, urban planning, and environmental protection.

How do Earth observation systems collect data?

    • These systems use a variety of sensors onboard satellites to capture images, measure different wavelengths, temperatures, and collect data on various parameters, which are then transmitted back to Earth for analysis.

What types of data are gathered by Earth observation systems?

    • Earth observation systems collect multispectral, hyperspectral, radar, and thermal imaging data, allowing for analysis of vegetation, land cover, ocean temperatures, atmospheric conditions, and more.

How is Earth observation data used in disaster management?

    • Data from these systems aid in predicting, monitoring, and responding to natural disasters such as floods, wildfires, hurricanes, and earthquakes, enabling better preparedness and response strategies.

Who uses Earth observation data and for what purposes?

    • Governments, environmental agencies, scientific researchers, urban planners, agriculture industries, and various sectors use this data for decision-making, policy formulation, resource management, and scientific studies.

What technologies are used in Earth observation systems?

    • These systems utilize remote sensing technologies such as optical sensors, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and advanced imaging systems to capture and analyze data.

Are Earth observation systems used only for scientific purposes?

    • No, they have various applications beyond science. They are used in agriculture to optimize crop management, in urban planning for infrastructure development, in water resource management, and more.

Are there any upcoming advancements in Earth observation systems?

    • Yes, advancements include higher-resolution imaging, increased frequency of data acquisition, improved accuracy in monitoring climate change, and enhanced data analytics for better insights