How well do we understand earth observation electro-optical sensor parameters?

Abstract

Since the launch of LANDSAT-1, the Earth observation systems' capability and utilisation has increased substantially. The past decade has seen a number of remote sensing satellites with improved capabilities. Understanding the sensor parameters from a user's standpoint is not that easy. In the context of increasing relevance and dependence on fusion of data from various sensors, there is an urgent need to standardise the sensor parameters specified. The present paper is an attempt to raise some of the concerns regarding specifying spatial, radiometric, spectral and temporal resolution. I solicit inputs from the readers on the points raised to formulate a consolidated recommendation for the ISPRS Council to propose to the international community.