In late October at Towson University, Geography students received UAS remote sensing training from Dr. Carter Wang. Students had the opportunity to fly the DJI Matrice 200 V2 drone that is equipped with the MicaSense Altum 6-band multispectral sensor. They collected aerial photographs of the campus, and later learned how to process these images for use in vegetation health analysis and map creation.
In the summer of 2024, MarylandView hosted a 4-day 3-night geospatial technology summer camp for Maryland high school students at Towson University.
This immersive experience introduced students to the field of geospatial technology through a series of skill-building workshops in remote sensing, story map creation, and satellite image analysis taught by TU professors. Students also gained exposure to real-life applications of geospatial technologies through a guided tour of NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, a private planetarium show, and hands-on experience with operating a drone. In addition, team-building activities such as rock climbing, trivia competitions, and group problem-solving provided an opportunity for students to socialize and form new friendships.
This summer camp was highly favorable to both students and parents, and it received a 4.4/5 rating in survey results from this past summer. Students were able to get a glimpse of the college life experience at TU, while engaging with other students from across Maryland who share similar passions and interests. It is an excellent opportunity for students who are interested in the intersection between technology and earth studies, and who are eager to learn from professionals working in the field. Students leave this camp with invaluable experiences that prepare them for their next steps in their educational journey.
We are excited to announce the 2024 Geospatial Technology Summer Camp that will take place at Towson University from July 10th to July 13th, 2024. This summer camp, tailored exclusively for Maryland high school students (9th-12th grade), promises an immersive experience in geospatial technologies.
Spanning four days and three nights, this all-inclusive camp at Towson University offers a comprehensive exploration of geospatial technologies, providing hands-on training in digital cartography, GPS, satellite remote sensing, aerial photography, and open-source mapping. Furthermore, students will engage in activities designed to promote team building and experience the vibrant college atmosphere.
Key highlights of the camp include:
And much more!
Please note that the camp has a capacity of 20 students, and the registration deadline is 11:59 pm on June 23rd, 2024. Early registration is strongly encouraged to secure your spot!
Registration is now closed as all seats have been sold out.
For any inquiries or if you would like to be placed on our waiting list, please contact Dr. Carter Wang at cwang@towson.edu.
We are excited to announce that MarylandView and the Department of Geography & Environmental Planning at Towson University are co-organizing the 2023 Geospatial Technology Summer Camp that will be held at Towson University from July 10th to July 13th, 2023. Designed exclusively for Maryland high school students (9th-12th grade), this all-inclusive, overnight camp spans four days and three nights, providing a comprehensive experience for those interested in exploring geospatial technologies.
Throughout the camp, students will receive hands-on experience with cutting-edge geospatial technologies, including digital cartography, GPS, satellite remote sensing, and aerial photography. Additionally, they will delve into various activities that showcase the excitement of college life and foster team building.
The key highlights of the summer camp include:
The registration period for this year’s camp concluded on June 23rd. However, we encourage you to mark your calendars and join us in 2024 for another engaging summer camp experience.
For any inquiries, please reach out to Dr. Carter Wang at cwang@towson.edu.
In early November, Towson University Geography students received UAS remote sensing training from Dr. Carter Wang. The students were able to have hands-on experience flying the DJI Matrice 200 V2 drone that is equipped with the MicaSense Altum 6-band multispectral sensor.
Dr. Carter Wang teaching students how to operate UAS device.
On October 7th, 2022, Dr. Carter Wang took a group of Towson University students to visit the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) in Greenbelt, MD. Students watched a presentation about different remote sensing systems that NASA uses to monitor the Earth. Following the presentation, students were guided on a tour of the various research facilities on the NASA Goddard campus.
Students were able to receive some hands-on experience flying drones during class in late October. Dr. Wang took his students outside to practice flying and capturing imagery with his drone.
Some aerial photos taken by students:
On October 22, 2021 students in Dr. Wang’s Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry class visited the U.S. Geological Survey Water Science Center in Catonsville, MD. They received a tour of the facility and viewed a presentation regarding the use of remotely sensed imagery for water monitoring. Students were able to engage and ask staff questions.
Dr. Wang’s Introduction to Remote Sensing and Photogrammetry class participated in a virtual field trip for NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center on October 5, 2021. The presentation features an overview of the Goddard Centers involvement in earth sciences and NASA missions. This includes details in the designing, building, testing, and launching of satellites. The program ends with an interactive Q and A session.
Dr. Wang was particularly interested in information regarding the newest Landsat satellite, Landsat 9, which successfully launched on September 27, 2021 after several unfortunate delays.
The Goddard Space Flight Center offers a variety of tours to suite different levels. Currently the Center is restricted to Virtual Experiences due to the ongoing pandemic. You can learn more about the programs and scheduling requirements here.
Remotely sensed imagery is useful for a variety of analyses. Wagner et al. used the imagery from unpiloted aerial systems (UAS) to better understand topological influences on tornado direction and intensity. More specifically they studied an EF3 tornado, a severely damaging tornado according to the Enhanced Fujita scale, that struck Tescott, Kansas on May 1, 2018. Estimated peak winds were 140 mph and distance traveled was roughly 12 miles. Their findings indicate that topography and UAS imagery provide useful information when completing tornado damage assessments.
Published August 2021. You may view the publication here.