KE7053 - Principles of Remote Sensing

What will I learn on this module?

In this module, you will learn about the principles of remote sensing. You will learn about electromagnetic radiation, characteristics of sensors and platforms, and key remote sensing techniques including but not limited to photogrammetry, altimetry, and multispectral and SAR imagery. In addition to learning the theory behind remote sensing, you will also gain hands-on experience in acquiring drone measurements and processing and interpreting remotely sensed data through computer-based practical exercises. You will develop your confidence, skills, and abilities in data acquisition, processing and analysis, and problem solving.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through lectures and computer-based practical exercises. Beyond timetabled sessions, your independent study will be guided and supported through your engagement with a range of interactive learning resources accessible online via the module eLP site.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be taught by world-leading experts in satellite remote sensing. Your class materials will be further supported by online resources available via the module eLP site. These resources include an interactive reading list with online access to a number of key articles aligned with your weekly lecture programme. Staff teaching on the module have an open-door policy during normal working hours and are responsive to communication via e-mail to support your learning.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:

MLO1: Understand the fundamental principles of remote sensing

MLO2: Critically identify and evaluate the characteristics and limitations of remote sensing platforms and sensors

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:

MLO3: Gain hands-on experience of remote sensing through computer-based practical exercises

MLO4: Write scientific reports, ensuring they follow established conventions for the reporting of results and analysis and reference relevant published material

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):

MLO5: Demonstrate a curiosity in acquiring and analysing your own dataset

How will I be assessed?

Summative assessment: you will be assessed in a summative manner through two pieces of assessment:

Project report of 2,000 words (50%)

This assessment task will require you to write a project report equivalent to 2,000 words describing the drone data acquisition, processing and analysis.

Addresses MLOs 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.

Written examination (50%)

This assessment task consists of a 2-hour written exam to check your understanding of remote sensing theory and your skills in data interpretation. Addresses MLOs 1 and 2.

Formative assessment: You will receive support during practical exercises to complete the work that will form the basis of your project report and a drop-in session will be scheduled before submission of your project report for you to receive formative feedback on your draft report.

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

Remote sensing is the process of acquiring information from satellite, airborne, or UAV platforms for measuring physical properties of a wide range of surfaces. In this module, you will learn the underlying principles behind remote sensing, starting from the theory of electromagnetic radiation to the different characteristics of remote sensing systems, and the processing and analysis of remotely sensed data. Your will gain hands on experience on acquiring your own data using a drone system and will learn how to process and analyse this dataset during computer-based practicals.

Course info

Credits 20

Level of Study Postgraduate

Mode of Study 1 year Full Time

School Geography and Natural Sciences

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2027

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

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All information is accurate at the time of sharing.

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

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