An Introduction to Earth Observation

Earth observation (EO) is a collective term for the gathering of data and information about our planet’s physical, chemical and biological systems through the process of ‘remote sensing’. Earth observation provides a way of monitoring the status of these systems and checking on their health. In essence, this is done by sensing and recording reflected or emitted electromagnetic radiation which is then processed, analysed, and utilised across a wide range of applications.

In this video, Professor Martin Wooster, Professor of Earth Observation Science at King’s College London, introduces some of the basic principles of Earth Observation and why viewing our planet from space is so important. He will explain some of the key remote sensing methods and techniques, and will illustrate how aspects of the entire Earth system are only possible to observe using EO technology.