ORBITAL SENSORS DATA APPLIED TO VEGETATION STUDIES

Abstract

This work presents the contribution of orbital sensors for obtaining information on vegetation studies. Initially it is described the basic concepts of getting information from remote sensors, information about natural resources satellites and their sensors and applications in the study of vegetation. Following it is presented a description of the works using data from orbital sensors for mapping and monitoring vegetation and works for assessment of vegetation biophysical parameters. In addition data from some sensors and products derived from such data like the vegetation indices that have been used for several studies of vegetation cover are presented. In this manner, it is possible to demonstrate the contribution of orbital sensors data especially for mapping and monitoring vegetation cover. The availability of data from new sensors with better spectral, spatial, and temporal characteristics will enable to monitor these resources with more detail to assure quality and sustainability in our planet.