Module 3 - Intro to ERDAS Imagine and Digital Imaging

 

Map of Features observed from LANDSAT Satellite

This week's lab introduced us to ERDAS Imagine, which helps us analyze different types of satellite and aerial images. There are multiple concepts to consider when using various types of images for analysis, such as spatial resolution, pixel size, radiometric resolution, and temporal resolution.

Additionally, learning how to navigate the tools in ERDAS was key to this week's assignment. This included adding images, selecting different views, adjusting the appropriate display settings, navigating individual images, and manipulating spectral band combinations to identify specific elements in an image. Furthermore, we learned how to create a map using an ERDAS image and how to use the INQUIRE box feature to select a smaller section within a larger image.

Finally, we learned about raw/multiple layer continuous data, single-layer panchromatic continuous data, and categorical/single-layer thematic data.

One of the biggest takeaways from this week’s lab is that our eyes can be misleading, which is why we must always rely on scientific methods, processes, and tools. When comparing the radiometric resolution of RRC and RRD, the visual differences may seem minimal. However, using the highly sensitive ERDAS software reveals a significant contrast between Image C (4-bit) and Image D (8-bit). In fact, Image D is 16 times more detailed and accurate during analysis.

This week's lab introduced us to ERDAS Imagine, which helps us analyze different types of satellite and aerial images. There are multiple concepts to consider when using various types of images for analysis, such as spatial resolution, pixel size, radiometric resolution, and temporal resolution.

Additionally, learning how to navigate the tools in ERDAS was key to this week's assignment. This included adding images, selecting different views, adjusting the appropriate display settings, navigating individual images, and manipulating spectral band combinations to identify specific elements in an image. Furthermore, we learned how to create a map using an ERDAS image and how to use the INQUIRE box feature to select a smaller section within a larger image.

Finally, we learned about raw/multiple layer continuous data, single-layer panchromatic continuous data, and categorical/single-layer thematic data.

One of the biggest takeaways from this week’s lab is that our eyes can be misleading, which is why we must always rely on scientific methods, processes, and tools. When comparing the radiometric resolution of RRC and RRD, the visual differences may seem minimal. However, using the highly sensitive ERDAS software reveals a significant contrast between Image C (4-bit) and Image D (8-bit). In fact, Image D is 16 times more detailed and accurate during analysis.