What is SLC in the context of satellite imagery?

In the context of satellite imagery, SLC stands for "Scan Line Corrector." This technology is particularly associated with the Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus (ETM+) sensor on Landsat 7. The Scan Line Corrector is designed to mitigate the effects of sensor motion during image capture, allowing for the correction of geometric distortions that might occur. When the satellite captures data, the SLC enables it to maintain a uniform swath and helps generate high-quality imagery without gaps, facilitating more accurate analysis and usage of the data in applications such as land use mapping, environmental monitoring, and resource management.

Understanding the functionality of the SLC is crucial for interpreting satellite data accurately and applying it effectively in geographic information systems.