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Literature Review
Geographic Information Systems
William F. Wieczorek and Alan M. Delmerico
Michael F. Goodchild
Data Collection:
Data is the lifeblood of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote
Sensing, and the quality, sources, and processing of data are critical to the
success of any geospatial project. This section goes into the numerous aspects
of data collecting while interning.
Data Source:
1. Remote Sensing Imagery: A core component of our data repository was
satellite imagery from sources such as Landsat, Sentinel, or high-resolution
commercial satellites. These photos revealed important information regarding
land cover, vegetation, urban growth, and environmental changes.
2. GIS Datasets: We relied heavily on publicly accessible GIS datasets, such as
land use maps, transportation networks, demographic figures, and natural
resource inventories, to support our study. These datasets were frequently
collected from government agencies, research institutes, or open data
websites.
3. Field Surveys: We performed field surveys in specific projects to acquire
ground-truth data that would serve as reference points for the accuracy
evaluation of remote sensing analysis. On-site measurements and observations
were required for these surveys.
4. Sensor Data: In circumstances where we were dealing with dynamic
environmental or urban phenomena, we incorporated real-time sensor data
from weather stations, environmental monitoring devices, or IoT (Internet of
Things) sensors into our research.
Data Acquisition:
Data gathering required a multifaceted method adapted to the unique data
sources and kinds. This procedure included the following steps:
1. Satellite and Sensor Selection: Depending on the study objectives, we
carefully chose satellites or sensors with the necessary spatial and spectral
resolution. Cost, coverage frequency, and the precise variables under
examination all affected this decision.
2. Data Download: After making our decision, we obtained satellite images or
sensor data from a variety of sources, including government organisations,
commercial suppliers, and academic institutes. This included following data
licencing agreements and conditions of usage.
3. Field Data Collection: To obtain location-specific data during field surveys, we
employed portable GPS devices, data recorders, and mobile applications.
Following that, the field data points were synchronised with GIS and remote
sensing data.
Data Preprocessing:
Our gathered data had to go through a number of preparation stages before it
could be used for analysis:
1. Image Correction: To maintain data accuracy and consistency, remote
sensing pictures are frequently corrected using processes such as radiometric,
atmospheric, and geometric correction.
2. Geo-Referencing: All datasets, including remote sensing images and GIS
layers, were precisely geo-referenced to a shared coordinate system. This
process allowed data layers to properly align and permitted overlay analysis.
3. Data Conversion: To ensure compatibility and simplicity of integration,
several data types were transformed to a standardised format. This conversion
allowed that data from many sources and sensors could be analysed in
harmony.
4. Data Cleaning: The datasets were cleaned thoroughly to remove any
inaccuracies, artefacts, or inconsistencies that may bring mistakes into our
study.
GIS Analysis: -
Data Integration:
We used Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to harmonise disparate
geographical information throughout the GIS analysis phase. This process
begins with the import of data from many sources, such as remote sensing
pictures, GIS databases, and field survey findings. We used GIS software for
procedures like geo-referencing and data processing to assure interoperability
and co-registration. This integration formed the basis of our future study.
Spatial Analysis:
- The spatial strategies used to meet study objectives were included in the GIS
analysis phase. Spatial searches for specific geographic attributes, buffer
analysis to determine proximity, overlay operations for spatial intersections,
and network analysis for connectivity and accessibility modelling were all part
of this. In urban planning, for example, buffer analysis assisted in evaluating the
influence of zoning restrictions on residential proximity to commercial districts,
whereas overlay operations highlighted crucial habitats in environmental
protection.
Map Creation:: -
Map design was critical in expressing geospatial knowledge. We created
themed maps depicting land use classifications, heat maps visualising
population density, and other graphical features customised to the nature of
the data and desired messaging using GIS software. Cartography that is
effective improved the display of spatial patterns and relationships.
Real-time Monitoring:
- Geographic information systems and remote sensing enabled real-time
monitoring, which is critical for following dynamic events such as natural
catastrophes and urban growth. Satellite networks and sensor systems enabled
continuous critical area evaluation, which was very useful in disaster
management.
- Real-time dashboards and alerts educated stakeholders, improving situational
awareness and crisis management.
Recommendations
Our immersive internship experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
and Remote Sensing has revealed the tremendous potential of these
technologies in tackling different issues across several disciplines. Based on our
research and analysis, we have made the following essential recommendations:
1. Capacity Development: Invest in continuous GIS and remote sensing training
and skill development for professionals in fields such as urban planning,
environmental conservation, and disaster management. Equipping decision-
makers and analysts with the essential skills can improve their capacity to
properly use geographic data.
Conclusion:
Our exploration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing
has demonstrated the revolutionary power of geospatial technology. We have
not only examined the complicated network of data collecting, analysis, and
visualisation via this internship, but we have also observed the enormous
impact these technologies have on tackling real-world situations.
To summarise, GIS's value resides in its capacity to combine disparate datasets,
offering critical insights that drive informed decision-making. The integration of
GIS and Remote Sensing improves our understanding of the planet by providing
a comprehensive perspective of the Earth's surface and atmosphere.