GEOSPATIAL TECHNIQUES
GEOSPATIAL TECHNIQUES
Introduction
• Geospatial Technology is a combination of three words: 'Geo'
means Earth; 'Spatial' means space; and technology means
tool instruments and methods. So, the literal meaning of
geospatial technology is a collection of various technologies that
provide information about the earth or an object and provide
decision-making capability towards earth's resource
management and sustainable development.
Geospatial technology is a term used to describe the range of modern
tools contributing to the geographic mapping and analysis of the Earth
and human societies.
It is fundamental to fields such as cartography, remote sensing, and
Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Geospatial technology offers a critical understanding of spatial
configurations, interconnections, and events.
Geospatial tools are crucial for tackling issues ranging from city
planning and environmental protection to emergency management and
transit systems.
They equip decision-makers with informed, data-centric approaches and
solutions.
Understanding Geospatial Technology
Geospatial Technology refers to the equipment,
software, and methods used to acquire, process, and
analyse data that has a geographic or spatial
component. This means that the data is associated
with a specific location on the Earth's surface.
Definition
• Geospatial techniques refer to the use of technology and methods to
collect, analyse, interpret, and visualize spatial data, allowing for a
better understanding of the Earth's surface and its features. These
techniques leverage various technologies, including Geographic
Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning System (GPS),
Remote Sensing, and cartography, to gather and manipulate spatial
information.
Types of Geospatial techniques
This technology includes Remote Sensing, Global Positioning System (GPS) and
Geographic Information System (GIS).
1. Remote Sensing-
It observes distant objects or surfaces by using images and data captured from space or
airborne instruments.
By analysing data from these sensors, experts can determine an object's characteristics.
Techniques include:
Aerial photographs (analog or digital) from aeroplanes and drones.
Electromagnetic waves (encompassing visible, infrared, and microwave frequencies).
Techniques like Radar and Lidar utilise radio or light signals to determine distances.
Example- Monitoring the rate of deforestation using satellite imagery.
2. Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
GIS is a system designed to collect, organize, visualize, and interpret
geographic data for specific Earth locations.
It layers this data to produce spatial analyses, maps, or 3D visuals.
By revealing data insights like patterns and relationships, GIS aids in
informed decision-making.
Its applications span across conservation, disaster response, business, health,
law enforcement, and more.
Example - Use of technology in Urban planning and development. thereby,
ensuring sustainable and efficient growth.
3. Global Positioning System (GPS)
GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location, speed, and time data.
It operates on the principle of Trilateration, indicating that at least three satellites are
needed for precise location determination.
Each satellite narrows down a location's potential position.
Example- Real-time route optimization for traffic control.
Uses of GPS
1) Location: it provides precise location who carries a GPS receiver.
2) Navigation: it is used in navigation of moving vehicles, ships and aircrafts.
3) Tracking and monitoring: it provides information about the movement of vehicles
and people such as GPS-enabled police vehicles, taxis, milk vans, trains, etc.
4) Time: it provides precise time on a global scale.
Significance of Geospatial Technology
• The range of applications for geospatial data is extensive. It's relevant in any field or
sector where location plays a significant role. Some standard instances where
geospatial technology is utilized:
Climate Change and Disaster Management: Aid in improving awareness of
situations and offer valuable insights for decision-making in dealing with natural
disasters.
Earth observation: It helps monitor various aspects, including plant growth, water
quality, temperatures on land and in the sea, and ocean salt levels.
Healthcare: These tools assist professionals in tracking virus spread, identifying
high-risk areas, supporting migrant populations, and more.
Land and forest management: GIS tools are often used for village surveys in India,
creating maps, and ensuring accurate rural land records.
o The forest department utilizes these technologies to map forest areas, assess carbon stocks,
detect forest fires, and track deforestation, aiding conservation initiatives.
Societal challenges: Geospatial tools are instrumental in tackling broad societal
issues, spanning from education and environment to financial accessibility and
natural resource management.
Logistics: These technologies ensure proper tracking of goods and verify their
condition.
Transport: Geospatial tools help pinpoint locations, predict arrival times, and
navigate routes for shipments.
Meteorology: These technologies play a crucial role in predicting weather
patterns for specific regions.
Agriculture: GIS is utilized in agriculture to assess the health of vegetation in
particular areas.
Ecology: These tools aid in monitoring species in designated areas and help in
disaster prevention and management.
Marketing and advertising: Ad agencies harness geospatial tools to direct
advertisements to pertinent areas.
Real estate: Remote sensing allows for the distant visualization and analysis of
property.
END
