Course - Optical Remote Sensing - TTK4265
Optical Remote Sensing
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About the course
Course content
The first module of the course introduces cameras, visual and infrared spectrum imagers, imaging spectroscopy both theoretically and practically. It contains a review of basic optics to explain the design of a hyperspectral imager. This includes fundamental effects such as refraction, diffraction and interference. With the basic theory established, concepts like spectral range, bandpass, etendue and throughput will be explained. Calibration and correction will be emphasized: Spectral, radiometric, geometric including keystone/smile, and calibration in the field. The second module considers how to design a drone based optical remote sensing system for high quality measurements: Drone based sensor systems, system design, metadata, time synchronization, navigation and geolocation, data compression, onboard and real-time processing systems. Mechanical, electric and software image stabilization, attitude control, gimbals. Methods and software for orthophoto and photogrammetry. The third module gives an introduction to practical drone operations, emphasizing mission planning, risk analysis and safety assurance. The fourth module addresses general challenges in remote sensing with regards to the radiometric effects of the atmosphere and how to compensate for this: Atmospheric effects on remote sensing, Radiative transfer equation, two stream equation, discrete ordinate method, phase functions, application to remote sensing, radiative transfer numerical modelling, spectral properties of targets. The fifth module addresses satellite remote sensing systems. Orbits, attitude control, image acquisition, mission design, mission analysis, correction. The course will give practical training on laboratory calibration, use of cameras and hyperspectral imagers from moving and fixed platforms. The data collected will be evaluated and summarized in a mandatory project report.
Learning outcome
Knowledge: The main learning objective is to understand the basic principles of remote sensing from space and air using optical instruments in visual and infrared spectrum including RGB cameras, multispectral and hyperspectral instruments. Skills: Analysis and design of optical imaging systems. Calibration of optical instruments. Planning and execution of drone operations for remote sensing. Use of software for orthophoto and photogrammetry. General competence: The aim is to enable the students to conduct and develop payload systems and experiments utilizing optical imaging as a tool in remote sensing.
Learning methods and activities
The course is given as a mixture of lectures, assignments, and a project that is based on laboratory and field experiments.
Further on evaluation
The project will count 50% on the final grade, and the written exam will count 50% on the final grade.
If there is a re-sit examination, the examination form may change from written to oral.
New exam can be done without a new project or new evaluation of the project.
Recommended previous knowledge
TDT4195 Grunnleggende visuell databehandling or a comparable background, and calculus 3 or a comparable background.
Subject areas
- Electronics
- Geodesy
- Electrooptics/Biooptics
- Engineering Cybernetics
- Marine Technology