The atmosphere is a very significant layer of gases that acts in the regulation of the

radiations reaching the earth's surface from space. It also controls other radiations originating

from human activities on the earth's surface. The atmosphere acts as a protector of the earth by

creating conducive temperatures and climates on the earth to sustain the bio-life on earth.

Interaction and concentration of the atmospheric gases may vary leading to the poor regulation of

radiations by the atmosphere. This results in extreme temperatures and unfavorable climate

changes on the earth's surface. The radiations in the atmosphere have to be checked regularly to

ensure they are not extreme hence the need for radiation sensors.

Radiation sensors help meteorologists in collecting data on the radiation in the

atmosphere. The sensors may collect these data when in touch with the medium which is difficult

when considering the whole atmosphere. This, therefore, requires it to be measured remotely

where the medium is measured by the sensor at a far distance hence the introduction of Remote

sensors. Remote sensors are classified into Active and Passive sensors.

The Active sensors use the energy they produce on the mediums they are measuring.

They work in the electromagnetic spectrum microwave parts and this helps them withstand the

atmosphere under all states. These sensors have the ability to gather data under both darkness

and light, for example, the active radar sensors. They are also able to work in climate conditions

that are unfavorable. Active sensing has been applied in the Topography mission in examining

the height of the earth. It has also been applied in security missions for instance in marine

monitoring using the double-bounce scattering idea.

The Passive remote sensors use the radiation that is out sent by the mediums under their

observation for instance reflected solar radiation. They work effectively in infrared and visible
electromagnetic spectrum parts. The passive sensors have the capability to use natural energy for

instance from the sun. Passive sensing has been applied in Landsat mission that has aided in

examining and knowing how people use land and the state of the earth’s environment.

In my opinion, active remote sensors have the best potential for broad use in the

Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). This is because active sensors are reliable in that, they work

under all environmental conditions and use own energy in their work. There is a need for extra

development to make the sensors more viable for wide incorporation in UAS. The need forest

health monitoring which calls for highly advanced technological applications. Hence the sensors

to use in this case need to be highly developed. In the examination of groundwater, the

applications required incur high costs which can be avoided by adopting differently developed

sensors that are cost friendly.