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remote sensing

American  

noun

  1. the science of gathering data on an object or area from a considerable distance, as with radar or infrared photography, to observe the earth or a heavenly body.


remote sensing British  

noun

  1. the use of an instrument, such as a radar device or camera, to scan the earth or another planet from space in order to collect data about some aspect of it

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • remote-sensing adjective

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Satellite remote sensing data and airborne survey measurements were used to monitor how the lake fills and drains, as well as the paths water takes inside the glacier.

From Science Daily • Jan. 5, 2026

It is a remote sensing technique which uses lasers to measure distances and create 3D maps, Ms Sayer added.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2025

Predict water-related changes better and improve local preparedness to deal with intensifying water challenges -- integrating the latest remote sensing data with local analysis and investing in adaptive infrastructure.

From Science Daily • Nov. 29, 2024

Scientists have long mapped important habitats on land using satellites and remote sensing.

From Science Magazine • Nov. 26, 2024

Recognizing this fact, I directed the implementation of an operational civil land satellite remote sensing system, with the operational management responsibility in Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

From State of the Union Address by Carter, Jimmy