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102-0675-00L 4 Credits BSC , DR , MSC D-BAUG , D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ERDW , D-ITET , D-USYS

Earth Observation

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Irena Hajnsek
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:41

Abstract

The aim of the course is to provide the fundamental knowledge about earth observation sensors, techniques and methods for bio/geophysical environmental parameter estimation.

Objective

The aim of the course is to provide the fundamental knowledge about earth observation sensors, techniques and methods for bio/geophysical environmental parameter estimation. Students should know at the end of the course: 1. Basics of measurement principle 2. Fundamentals of image acquisition 3. Basics of the sensor-specific geometries 4. Sensor-specific determination of environmental parameters The principles learnt are applied and explored in greater depth as part of a project. This involves using Google Earth Engine (GEE) with the Python programming language.

Content

The course gives an insight into today's earth observation with the following outlined content: 1. Introduction to remote sensing of airborne and spaceborne systems 2. Introduction to the radiometry 3. Introduction to optical systems (optical and hyperspectral) 4. Introduction to microwave technology (active and passive) 5. Introduction to celestial mechanics 6. Introduction to techniques and methods for the determination of environmental parameters 7. Introduction to applications for the determination of environmental parameters in hydrology, glaciology, forestry and agriculture, geology, meterology and topgraphy

Resources

Lecture Notes

Slides for each lecture block will be provided on Moodle.

Literature

Selected literature will be presented at the beginning of the lecture.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 60 minutes
Aids
Personal notes (max. 2 double pages), non-programmable calculator
The final grade is determined by (i) a written session examination (60 %), (ii) a compulsory group project (35 %) and (iii) additional tasks (5 %) during the semester, e.g., answering quizzes and reviewing project reports.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Earth Observation No time listed 3 h weekly

Offered In