Republic of the Philippines

PANGASINAN STATE UNIVERSITY

Urdaneta Campus
College of Engineering and Architecture
Department of Architecture

TITLE: CS-MT-01-REMOTE SITE ANALYSIS TOOLS:

RSW NO.: MT-01

DATE GIVEN: JANUARY 31, 2024

DATE DUE: FEBRUARY 9, 2024
DATE SUBMITTED: FEBRUARY 9, 2024

SUBMITTED ON TIME LATE SUBMITTED

NAME OF STUDENT:

JONATHAN D. RAMOS

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION

Key features commonly found in Remote Site Analysis Tools

II. REMOTE SENSING

- Passive remote sensing

- Active remote sensing
- Passive Microwave Remote Sensing
- Active Microwave Remote Sensing

III. GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS)

- Vector data
- Raster data

IV. CITY INFORMATION SYSTEM (CIS)

V. CONCLUSION

VI. REFERENCES

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 I. INTRODUCTION

Remote Site Analysis Tools are software solutions designed to assess and analyze various aspects
of remote locations or sites. These tools leverage advanced technologies such as satellite imagery,
geographic information systems (GIS), and machine learning algorithms to gather, process, and
interpret data about remote areas without the need for physical presence on-site.
The primary objective of Remote Site Analysis Tools is to provide comprehensive insights into
remote locations for various purposes, including environmental monitoring, infrastructure
planning, natural resource management, disaster response, and more. By utilizing these tools,
organizations can make informed decisions, optimize resource allocation, and mitigate risks
associated with remote site operations.

Key features commonly found in Remote Site Analysis Tools include:

Satellite Imagery Analysis: These tools utilize satellite images to provide high-resolution visual data
of remote areas, allowing users to assess terrain, land cover, vegetation, and changes over time.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Integration: Remote Site Analysis Tools often integrate with
GIS platforms to overlay various spatial data layers, enabling users to analyze relationships and
patterns within the geographic context.
Environmental Monitoring: They facilitate monitoring of environmental factors such as air quality,
water quality, deforestation, and land degradation in remote areas, aiding in conservation efforts
and sustainable development.
Infrastructure Planning: These tools assist in assessing the suitability of remote locations for
infrastructure projects such as roads, pipelines, power plants, and telecommunications networks,
considering factors like terrain, accessibility, and environmental impact.
Risk Assessment and Disaster Response: Remote Site Analysis Tools help identify and assess risks
associated with natural disasters, such as floods, wildfires, and earthquakes, enabling proactive
planning and effective emergency response strategies.
Remote Sensing Data Analysis: They incorporate data from various remote sensing sources,
including satellites, drones, and sensors, to extract valuable insights about remote locations, such
as temperature, moisture levels, and land use patterns.
Machine Learning and AI Algorithms: Advanced Remote Site Analysis Tools leverage machine
learning algorithms to automate data processing, identify patterns, and make predictions based on
historical data, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of analyses.
Overall, Remote Site Analysis Tools play a crucial role in enabling organizations to gain actionable
insights into remote locations, thereby facilitating informed decision-making, efficient resource
management, and sustainable development in challenging environments.

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 II. What is remote sensing?
Remote sensing is the science of obtaining information about objects or areas from a distance,
typically from aircraft or satellites.

A Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) image was created with data collected by NOAA's National
Geodetic Survey.
Remote sensors collect data by detecting the energy that is reflected from Earth. These sensors
can be on satellites or mounted on aircraft.
Remote sensors can be either passive or active. Passive sensors respond to external stimuli. They
record natural energy that is reflected or emitted from the Earth's surface. The most common
source of radiation detected by passive sensors is reflected sunlight.

In contrast, active sensors use internal stimuli to collect data about Earth. For example, a laser-beam
remote sensing system projects a laser onto the surface of the Earth and measures the time
that it takes for the laser to reflect to its sensor.
Remote sensing has a wide range of applications in many different fields:

• applications: Monitor Coastal shoreline changes, track sediment transport, and map
coastal features. Data can be used for coastal mapping and erosion prevention.
• Ocean applications: Monitor Ocean circulation and current systems, measure ocean
temperature and wave heights, and track sea ice. Data can be used to better understand the
oceans and how to best manage ocean resources.
•
Hazard assessment: Track hurricanes, earthquakes, erosion, and flooding. Data can be used
to assess the impacts of a natural disaster and create preparedness strategies to be used
before and after a hazardous event.

• Natural resource management: Monitor land use, map wetlands, and chart wildlife habitats.
Data can be used to minimize the damage that urban growth has on the environment and
help decide how to best protect natural resources.

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 Types Of Remote Sensing: Technology Changing the World
Radars and lasers are breathtaking attributes of sci-fi movies no longer as it was just a few decades
ago. These innovations have been widely used as types of sensors in remote sensing since science
made a giant step ahead.
Over the time, remote sensing technology found its applications in various spheres of human life.
Farmers benefit from the types of remote sensing satellites daily. Many important decisions

Scheme of how active remote sensing works.

Radars and lidars are the most epic examples of active remote sensing.
Active Remote Sensing Instruments
Each active sensor in remote sensing directs its signal to the object and then checks the response –
the received quantity. Most devices employ microwaves since they are relatively immune to
weather conditions. Active remote sensing techniques differ by what they transmit (light or waves)
and what they determine (e.g., distance, height, atmospheric conditions, etc.).

• Radar is a sensor assisting in ranging with radio signals. Its specific feature is the antenna emitting
impulses. When the energy flow in radar active remote sensing meets an obstacle, it scatters back to
the sensor to some degree. Based on its amount and traveling time, it is possible to estimate how far
the target is.
• Lidar determines distance with light. Lidar active remote sensing implies transmitting light impulses
and checking the quantity retrieved. The target location and distance are understood by multiplying
the time by the speed of light.
• Laser altimeter measures elevation with lidar.
• Ranging instruments estimate the range either with one or two identical devices on different
platforms sending signals to each other.
• Sounder studies weather conditions vertically by emitting impulses, in case it falls into the active
category.
• Scatter meter is a specific device to measure bounced (backscattered) radiation.

Applications And Benefits

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 Apart from a variety of implementations, active remote sensors have no restrictions as to research
conditions. Active types of remote sensing systems fully function at any time of the day as they do
not require sunlight, and they are relatively independent of atmospheric scatterings.
Various types of remote sensing technology find implementations both in scientific branches and
far more practical industries. Shuttle Radar Topography Mission collected the Earth’s elevation
data. Lidar’s active remote sensing in the sky assisted in the elaboration of digital models of our
planet’s surfaces.
Data acquired with remote sensing instruments serve agriculturalists and foresters. They are
critical in hard-to-reach places in marine sciences and rescue missions.
Sounders assist in developing weather forecasts with vertical profiles of humidity, precipitations,
temperature, and absence/presence of clouds.

What Is Passive Remote Sensing?

Passive sensors in remote sensing do not streamline energy of their own to the researched object or
surface, unlike active ones. Passive remote sensing depends on natural energy (sunrays) bounced
by the target. For this reason, it can be applied only with proper sunlight, otherwise there will be
nothing to reflect.
Passive remote sensing employs multispectral or hyperspectral sensors that measure the acquired
quantity with multiple band combinations. These combinations differ by the number of channels
(two wavelengths and more). The scope of bands includes spectra within and beyond human vision
(visible, IR, NIR, TIR, microwave).

Scheme of how passive remote sensing works.

Passive Remote Sensing Devices

The most popular passive remote sensing examples of devices are various types of radiometers or
spectrometers.
Instrument names clearly identify what they measure:

• Spectrometer distinguishes and analyzes spectral bands.

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 • Radiometer determines the power of radiation emitted by the object in particular band
ranges (visible, IR, microwave).
• Spectroradiometer finds out the power of radiation in several band ranges.
• Hyperspectral radiometer operates with the most accurate type of passive sensor that is
used in remote sensing. Due to extremely high resolution, it differentiates hundreds of
ultimately narrow spectral bands within visible, NIR, and MIR regions.
• An imaging radiometer scans the object or a surface to reproduce the image.
• Sounder senses the atmospheric conditions vertically.
• Accelerometer detects changes in speed per unit of time (e.g., linear or rotational).

Applications And Advantages Of Passive Remote Sensing

Among examples of passive sensors in remote sensing, Landsat definitely stands out as the most
long-lasting Earth-observing mission. It monitored our planet and recorded the obtained data
enabling us to analyze the way it changed within a 40-year span. The mission’s great plus is that the
information is accessible to the public, with interpretations applied in geology, mapping, ecology,
forestry and agriculture, marine sciences, meteorology, etc.
In agriculture, remote sensing utilizes the reflectance properties of vegetation, measuring them,
and assessing crop health with vegetation indices. It is possible because specific values of
vegetation indices correlate with certain species at a certain growth stage. Our EOSDA Crop
Monitoring app helps argon businesses worldwide to manage their daily tasks, as well as check the
fields’ state and maintain healthy vegetation on them.

What Is Microwave Remote Sensing?

The classification of microwave sensing includes active and passive types and bases on the
principle of either transmitting and receiving signals or receiving only. The differentiation lies in the
wavelength. In this particular case, it varies from 1cm to 1m. Unlike shorter wavelengths, they
break through almost any atmospheric conditions but heavy rains. Their insusceptibility to aerosols
enables monitoring almost in any weather and at any time.

Passive Microwave Remote Sensing

Passive microwave sensing checks microwave emissions from targets. A passive sensor like a
radiometer or scanner distinguishes natural energy and records it, with the difference that its
antenna detects microwaves in particular, not other, shorter waves. The method enables
specialists to understand the temperature and moisture of the target via certain correlations with
the radiation quantity. The energy detected by this type of sensor is emitted, transmitted, or
reflected.
The method provides data for many branches like meteorology, hydrology, agriculture, ecology,
oceanography. In particular, it enables scientists to check soil moisture, atmospheric water and
ozone concentrations; to distinguish oil spills and address water pollution.

Active Microwave Remote Sensing

Active microwave sensors radiate their own signal to the target and check the bounced amount.
Different backscattering properties of different targets, as well as the traveling time, make it
possible to outline them and find out the distance, knowing how long it takes the signal to travel to
and back. The quantity also depends on the illumination angle and the surface
evenness/roughness.

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 The most typical example of such devices is radar (operating with microwaves). The basic two types
of remote sensing in this category are:
•
imaging (two-dimensional, e.g., radars);
•
non-imaging (linear, e.g., altimeters or scatter meters).
The technology is particularly beneficial to aircraft/spacecraft industries, marine sciences, and
meteorology, to mention a few.

Earth Observations: Credible Data For Diverse Uses

Remote sensing satellites revolve around our planet within an established interval, providing
almost real-time data and recording them. The obtained information makes it possible to analyze
not only the current state of things but the historical background as well.
The technology findings nourish scientific research and facilitate people’s everyday activities in
many branches, both practical and theoretical. With multiple applications and benefits to enjoy,
there is still much to discover.

III. What is a geographic information system (GIS)?

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer system that analyzes and displays geographically
referenced information. It uses data that is attached to a unique location.

Most of the information we have about our world contains a location reference: Where are USGS stream
gages located? Where was a rock sample collected? Exactly where are all of a city's fire hydrants?

If, for example, a rare plant is observed in three different places, GIS analysis might show that the plants
are all on north-facing slopes that are above an elevation of 1,000 feet and that get more than ten inches of
rain per year. GIS maps can then display all locations in the area that have similar conditions, so
researchers know where to look for more of the rare plants.

By knowing the geographic location of farms using a specific fertilizer, GIS analysis of farm locations,
stream locations, elevations, and rainfall will show which streams are likely to carry that fertilizer
downstream.

These are just a few examples of the many uses of GIS in earth sciences, biology, resource management,
and many other fields.

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 almost real-time data and recording them. The obtained information makes it possible to analyze
not only the current state of things but the historical background as well.
The technology findings nourish scientific research and facilitate people’s everyday activities in
many branches, both practical and theoretical. With multiple applications and benefits to enjoy,
there is still much to discover.

What is a geographic information system (GIS)?

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer system that analyzes and displays geographically
referenced information. It uses data that is attached to a unique location.

Most of the information we have about our world contains a location reference: Where are USGS stream
gages located? Where was a rock sample collected? Exactly where are all of a city's fire hydrants?

If, for example, a rare plant is observed in three different places, GIS analysis might show that the plants
are all on north-facing slopes that are above an elevation of 1,000 feet and that get more than ten inches of
rain per year. GIS maps can then display all locations in the area that have similar conditions, so
researchers know where to look for more of the rare plants.

By knowing the geographic location of farms using a specific fertilizer, GIS analysis of farm locations,
stream locations, elevations, and rainfall will show which streams are likely to carry that fertilizer
downstream.

These are just a few examples of the many uses of GIS in earth sciences, biology, resource management,
and many other fields.

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 GIS mapping produces visualizations
of geospatial information. The 4 main
ideas of Geographic Information
Systems (GIS) are:
Create geographic data.
Manage it in a database.
Analyze and find patterns.
Display it on a map.
Because viewing and analyzing data
on maps impacts our understanding

using GIS.we can make better decisions

of data,
It helps us understand what is where.
The analysis becomes simple.
Answers become clear.
Because you don’t fully understand
your data until you see how it relates
to other things in a geographic
context.

Definitions of GIS
To get started, let’s explore some
A geographic information system (GIS) is a system that creates, manages, analyzes, and maps all
simple definitions of GIS.

types of data. GIS connects data to a map, integrating location data (where things are) with all types
of descriptive information (what things are like there).

Environmental Systems Research Institute (Esri)

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer system that analyzes and displays
geographically referenced information. It uses data that is attached to a unique location.

United States Geological Survey (USGS)

A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer system for capturing, storing, checking, and
displaying data related to positions on Earth’s surface.

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 These definitions of GIS share several commonalities:
Computer-Based System: All three definitions emphasize that GIS is a computer-based system or
technology. This highlights the role of computers in processing and managing geographic
information.

• Spatial Data: They all mention the importance of geographic or geographically referenced
information. GIS means that it deals with data associated with specific locations on the
Earth’s surface.
• Data Management: Each definition of GIS mentions the storage and management of data.
GIS is not just about displaying maps; it involves capturing, managing, and analyzing data in
a spatial context.
• Integration of Data and Maps: These definitions stress the integration of location data
(maps) and descriptive information. GIS connects spatial data (where things are) with
attribute data (what things are like there). This integration is a core aspect of GIS
functionality.
• Analytical Capability: The terms “analyze” and “displays” indicate that GIS is not just about
visualizing data on maps but also includes analytical functions. It can be used to analyze
and derive insights from spatial data.

GIS Data Types

There are two different types of GIS data, vector data and raster data. Each type of data has its own
format.
Vector Data
Vector data is the spatial data most people are familiar with, as it is the format presented in
mapping portals such as Open Street Maps and Google Maps. It is also used extensively in
computer graphics and computer-aided design (CAD). It consists of points, lines, and polygons.
Point Data – Point Data typically represents nonadjacent features or distinct data points. Points are
zero-dimensional, so you cannot measure their length or area. Examples of point data would be
cities, points of interest, and schools.
Line Data – Line data is also known as arc data. It represents linear features such as rivers, streets,
and trails. Line data has a starting and an ending point, and, since it only has one dimension, it can
only be used to measure length.
To distinguish arc features from each other, some lines may be solid while others are dashed, and
different colors or line thicknesses may be used. For example, a road may be a solid black line,
while a river is a dashed blue line.
Polygon Data – Polygons typically represent areas such as cities, lakes, or forests. Unlike point and
line data, polygons are two-dimensional and can measure the perimeter or area of a geographic
feature. Color schemes, patterns or gradation color schemes could be used to identify polygon
features.
Vector images are high-quality representations of an image or a shape. They can be enlarged or
reduced with no loss of quality. To create or manipulate a vector image, you must use a program
like Adobe Illustrator. A camera cannot capture a vector image.

Raster Data
Raster data, also known as grid data, is made up of pixels, and each pixel has a value. You will
typically find raster data on topographic maps, satellite images, and aerial surveys. Raster data is
vital for meteorology, disaster management, and industries where analyzing risk is essential.

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 Raster data, also known as grid data, is made up of pixels, and each pixel has a value. You will
typically find raster data on topographic maps, satellite images, and aerial surveys. Raster data is
vital for meteorology, disaster management, and industries where analyzing risk is essential.
There are two types of raster data, continuous and discrete.
Continuous Data – Continuous raster’s are cells on the grid that gradually change. Some examples
would be an aerial photo, elevation, and temperature. Continuous raster surfaces come from a
fixed registration point. For instance, in digital elevation models, sea level is used as a registration
point. Each cell represents a value that is above or below sea level.
Unlike vector data, raster data is not scalable. If it is enlarged too much, it will get pixelated, and if
stretched too much, it will become distorted. A digital photo is an example of raster data.

IV. City information system (CIS)

A City Information System (CIS) is a comprehensive platform designed to collect, manage, analyze,
and disseminate information related to various aspects of urban life. These systems integrate data
from diverse sources to provide insights into urban development, infrastructure management,
public services, environmental sustainability, and citizen engagement. Here are two samples of CIS
implementations along with their references:

New York City Open Data Portal (NYC Open Data)

1. The NYC Open Data Portal serves as a central repository for a vast array of datasets related
to New York City. These datasets cover a wide range of topics, including demographics,
transportation, public safety, health, environment, education, and more. By making this data
accessible to the public, the portal promotes transparency and accountability within city
governance.
Transportation Data: This category includes datasets on subway performance, bus
schedules, traffic congestion, bike lanes, parking availability, and more. Citizens can access
• real-time information about public transit services, helping them plan their commutes more
efficiently.
Public Health Data: With datasets on COVID-19 statistics, healthcare facilities,
environmental health indicators, and disease outbreaks, residents and policymakers gain
• insights into public health trends and can make informed decisions about healthcare
resources and interventions.
Education Data: The portal provides datasets on school performance, student
demographics, enrollment trends, educational programs, and more. This information
• enables parents, educators, and policymakers to assess the quality of education in different
areas and identify areas for improvement.
By leveraging this wealth of data, researchers, developers, and entrepreneurs can also create
innovative solutions to address urban challenges, such as improving transportation systems,
enhancing public health interventions, and promoting educational equity.

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 Singapore's Smart Nation Initiative

2. Singapore's Smart Nation Initiative is a comprehensive strategy aimed at harnessing

technology and data to create a more livable, efficient, and sustainable urban environment.
At the heart of this initiative is the concept of a Smart Nation, where digital technologies are
integrated seamlessly into various aspects of daily life.

• Smart Mobility: Through initiatives like intelligent transportation systems, real-time traffic
monitoring, and the promotion of sustainable modes of transport such as walking, cycling,
and public transit, Singapore aims to alleviate congestion, reduce emissions, and enhance
the overall efficiency of urban mobility.

Smart Environment: By deploying IoT sensors for air quality monitoring, optimizing waste
management processes, and promoting the creation and maintenance of green spaces,
Singapore seeks to create a healthier and more sustainable urban environment for its
residents.

• Smart Governance: Singapore leverages technology to improve government services,

engage citizens, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Through e-Government
services, citizens can access a wide range of public services online, streamlining
bureaucratic processes and enhancing convenience. Additionally, mechanisms for citizen
feedback and participation enable residents to contribute to policymaking processes and
hold government agencies accountable.

By integrating these various initiatives, Singapore aims to create a holistic and interconnected
urban ecosystem that enhances the quality of life for its residents, fosters economic growth, and
positions the city-state as a global leader in smart city innovation.

Overall, both the NYC Open Data Portal and Singapore's Smart Nation Initiative exemplify the power
of City Information Systems in leveraging data and technology to address the complex challenges
of urbanization and create more sustainable, efficient, and livable cities.

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 V. CONCLUSION

The conclusion regarding remote site analysis tools depends on various factors such as their
effectiveness, ease of use, features, cost, and specific needs of the user or organization. However
remote site analysis tools offer significant advantages in terms of:

I. Accessibility: They allow users to remotely assess and analyze sites without the need for
physical presence, which can save time and resources, especially in situations where
travel is impractical or costly.
II. Efficiency: These tools often provide automated data collection and analysis features,
enabling users to gather information more quickly and accurately compared to
traditional methods.
III. Cost-effectiveness: By eliminating the need for on-site visits, remote site analysis tools
can reduce expenses associated with travel, accommodation, and other logistical
considerations.
IV. Flexibility: Many remote site analysis tools offer customizable features and options,
allowing users to tailor their analyses to specific requirements or preferences.
V. Collaboration: These tools often support collaboration and information sharing among
team members or stakeholders, facilitating better communication and decision-making
processes.
However, it's essential to note that remote site analysis tools may have limitations, such as reliance
on internet connectivity, potential security concerns, and the need for adequate training to use
them effectively.
In conclusion, remote site analysis tools can be valuable assets for individuals and organizations
looking to streamline their site assessment processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.
However, it's crucial to evaluate these tools carefully to ensure they meet your specific needs and
requirements.

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 VI. References

• EOS Data Analytics: Space solutions for Earth problems

https://eos.com/blog/types-of-remote-sensing/

• National geospatial Program (2012) 8 Base Layers Of The National Map

https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/8-base-layers-national-map

• New York City Open Data Portal. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://opendata.cityofnewyork.us/

• Smart Nation Singapore. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://www.smartnation.gov.sg/

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