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.

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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

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• remote-sensing
  adjective

Example Sentences

Because researchers cannot simply collect samples from every part of the Moon, they must rely on remote sensing methods.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

Randy Fulweber, a study co-author and the geographic information systems and remote sensing manager at UAF's Toolik Field Station, said combining satellite imagery with charcoal data revealed more than just how often fires occur.

From Science Daily • Jan. 14, 2026

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

Currently scientists have been measuring individual trees and trying to extrapolate, but this presents a "huge challenge" said Prof Mat Disney, professor of remote sensing, at University College London.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2025

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