Hobart, Online
Introduction
This unit provides an engaging, hands-on introduction to the dynamic field of remote sensing. This unit delves into the latest advancements in satellite and aerial imagery, empowering students to utilise these technologies to understand and address diverse environmental and societal challenges. In today's rapidly changing world, remote sensing is a powerful tool with applications spanning climate change studies, vegetation studies, forestry, environmental management, glaciology, oceanography, and urban studies. Starting with the fundamental physics of light and its interaction with the Earth's atmosphere and surface, this unit covers the technical and practical aspects of a range of satellite and airborne sensors. Through weekly computer practicals using ENVI software, students gain the necessary skills to display, analyse, and extract valuable information from remotely sensed imagery. This unit equips students pursuing careers in geospatial science, geography, environmental science, earth sciences, agricultural science, plant science, computing and information systems, and marine and Antarctic studies with vital scientific and professional skills. As the demand for professionals with expertise in geospatial data analysis grows, this unit prepares students to enter the job market with confidence.
Summary
| Unit name | Remote Sensing: Observing the Earth from Above |
| Unit code | KGG103 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | Sciences and Engineering School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Discipline | Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Coordinator | Professor Arko Lucieer |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Introductory |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 4/7/2027 | 26/7/2027 | 29/8/2027 | 23/10/2027 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Analyse and interpret remote sensing datasets by applying knowledge of electromagnetic energy and its interactions with the Earth's atmosphere and surface.
- Apply remote sensing data and analysis techniques to investigate environmental and spatial challenges.
- Apply image analysis software to process, analyse, and visualise remote sensing data and produce spatial products including maps and classified images.
- Communicate remote sensing concepts, analytical methods, and results through written, oral, and visual means, demonstrating the ability to explain and justify analytical decisions.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Teaching
| Teaching Pattern | Weekly pre-recorded video content that needs to be reviewed before each seminar. Weekly one hour seminar (on campus and online) focusing on practical demonstrations and Q&A. One weekly 3-hr practical. Seminars and practical introductions will be simultaneously offered on campus and on Zoom, recorded and made available on MyLO. |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Assessment Task 1: Foundations of image interpretation (15%)|Assignment 2 Applied Remote Sensing Techniques: Weekly Tasks (35%)|Assessment Task 3: remote sensing case study (50%) |
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
|---|---|
| Recommended | We will be using chapters from the Earth Observation Australia (EOA) texbooks: https://www.eoa.org.au/earth-observation-textbooks We will also refer to other readings in the weekly MyLO pages. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.