In remote sensing, what type of device is typically used to collect data?

In remote sensing, devices on board aircraft or spacecraft are crucial for collecting data as they allow for the acquisition of imagery and information about the Earth's surface from a distance. These platforms can be equipped with various sensors that capture different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum, enabling the analysis of land cover, weather patterns, and environmental changes over large areas.

Aircraft and spacecraft can cover vast expanses in a relatively short amount of time, making them highly effective for synoptic observations. This capability is particularly important for applications like agriculture, urban planning, and environmental monitoring, where large-scale data acquisition is necessary for effective analysis and decision-making.

The use of such devices distinguishes remote sensing from other forms of data collection, as they are specifically designed to capture aerial or satellite imagery rather than being confined to ground-level observations or localized monitoring.