Question

Which type of satellite sensor captures data in various spectral bands, including visible, infrared and microwave?

• A. Lidar sensor
• B. SAR sensor
• C. Multispectral sensor
• D. Hyperspectral sensor

Hint:

• Multispectral sensors collect data in multiple (several to tens) discrete spectral bands, typically in the visible, near-infrared (NIR), and short-wave infrared (SWIR) regions. Some also have thermal infrared bands.
• Hyperspectral sensors collect data in many (hundreds) narrow, contiguous bands, providing a detailed spectrum.
• SAR sensors operate in the microwave region.
• LiDAR uses laser pulses (often NIR or green).
• No single common sensor type routinely captures imagery across visible, infrared, AND microwave regions simultaneously. The question likely has an error regarding "microwave" if "Multispectral sensor" is the intended answer for visible/infrared.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To answer the question, let's explore the different types of satellite sensors and the spectral bands they capture data in.

1. Understanding the Concepts:

- Satellite Sensors: Satellite sensors are instruments on satellites used to capture various types of data about the Earth's surface. They capture electromagnetic radiation emitted or reflected by the Earth's surface in different wavelengths or spectral bands.

- Spectral Bands: These bands include visible light, infrared, and microwave. Each band provides unique information about the Earth's surface, such as vegetation health, land cover, and atmospheric conditions.

2. Breakdown of the Types of Satellite Sensors:

• Optical Sensors: These sensors capture data in the visible and near-infrared spectrum, which is useful for observing land cover, vegetation, and water bodies. They are not typically sensitive to microwave wavelengths.
• Infrared Sensors: These sensors capture infrared data and are often used to study vegetation, water temperature, and heat emissions. However, they do not typically capture microwave data.
• Microwave Sensors: These sensors capture data in the microwave spectrum and are primarily used for radar imaging, weather monitoring, and measuring soil moisture. They do not capture visible or infrared data.
• Multispectral and Hyperspectral Sensors: These sensors are capable of capturing data in multiple spectral bands, including visible, infrared, and sometimes microwave bands. They are used for detailed analysis of the Earth's surface, including vegetation health, soil composition, and atmospheric conditions. These sensors can capture a wide range of spectral data across different wavelengths, making them versatile for various applications in remote sensing.

3. Conclusion:

The type of satellite sensor that captures data in various spectral bands, including visible, infrared, and microwave, is the multispectral and hyperspectral sensor. These sensors are designed to capture broad and specific ranges of electromagnetic radiation across multiple bands, providing a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's surface and atmosphere.

Final Answer:

The correct type of satellite sensor is multispectral and hyperspectral sensors, as they capture data in various spectral bands including visible, infrared, and microwave.