Data Sources
The following is a list of sources where you can find remote sensing data and products.
Data for Maryland
MD iMAP
MD iMAP, made available by the Maryland government, is an open data portal for remote sensing and otherGIS data. In addition to data they also have mapping applications and information on GIS initiatives, innovations, and training.
Towson University – Center for GIS (CGIS)
Center for GIS, hosted by Towson University, works to create meaningful analysis with their collaborators. It seeks to expand the use of GIS by increasing its accessibility and informing customers. They also provide information about training.
UMD GIS and Spatial Data Center
The GIS and Spatial Data Center from University of Maryland works to support and assist those connected to the College Park campus. They have many different types of data, maps, and resources as well as information about GIS and training.
International Data
USGS EarthExplorer
USGS EarthExplorer is a data portal where you can search for satellite imagery, aerial photographs, GIS products and more.
NASA Earth Data Search
NASA Earth Data Search is a portal that allows you to search for various products by different organizations, instruments, projects and more.
NASA WorldView
NASA WorldView allows you to view the entire world over time through satellite imagery. It is updated daily.
NASA LAADS DAAC
NASA LAADS DAAC is one of twelve archive systems within the NASA program. It has more specific remote sensing data available for level 1 and atmospheric sciences.
GFCC FCC & GFCC TC
GFCC FCC and GFCC TC are 30 meter, multi-year data for global forest cover change – forest cover and tree cover, respectively.
SEDAC
SEDAC, Socioeconomic Data and Application Center, provides maps combining socioeconomic data with scientific data. They are also produced over time so you can see how the population is changing as well.
USGS National Map
USGS National Map is a collaborative project that combines efforts from USGS entities and other facilities to establish data regarding the topography of the United States. This map has a variety of applications and uses from scientific to recreational.
NAIP
NAIP, the National Agriculture Imagery Program, focuses on collecting satellite imagery during the growing season. This imagery is taken at 1 meter ground sample distance (GSD) and can be used to benefit farm programs
Software
Most data analysis is completed with the help of GIS related software. These applications allow you to map your data and identify meaningful relationships. It is important to note that most of these software are not free to use, thought many have free-trials.
ERDAS Imagine
ERDAS Imagine is a processing software made available by Hexagon. It used for geospatial data and other types of imagery as well such as those created with LiDAR or vector data. The application has many geospatial analysis tools for use such as layering, mosaicking, and classification of remotely sensed imagery.
ENVI
ENVI, by L3Harris, is an easy to use software for geospatial analysis and image processing. The application supports analysis of several data types including hyperspectral, thermal, and LiDAR. It is also compatible with ESRI’s ArcGIS platform.
ArcGIS
ArcGIS software is provided by ESRI, the Environmental Systems Research Institute. This company has created a wide range of applications for a variety of uses such as data collection, mapping, and spatial analysis. ArcGIS Pro Desktop and ArcMap are powerful mapping applications where you can analyze many types of data. They also host ArcGIS Online, where you can easily access and share your data with others.
QGIS
QGIS is an open source software for GIS analysis. This application is free to use and constantly growing with updates to increase editing and analysis capabilities.
Pix4D
Pix4D is unique for drone mapping and photogrammetry processing. It has a variety of apps and desktop platforms to fit all your drone flying and imagery processing needs.
Google Earth Pro
Google Earth Pro allows you to explore the planet virtually in 3D and is free tp use. It has historical imagery, allowing you to identify changes over time, among other features such as road maps and street level views.
