What is the primary function of the panchromatic sensor on the satellites mentioned?

The primary function of a panchromatic sensor on satellites is to capture high-resolution grayscale images, often used for detailed analysis in various applications such as urban planning, land use mapping, and environmental monitoring. Panchromatic sensors have the capability to capture more detail than color sensors because they gather data across a wide range of wavelengths, typically in the visible spectrum. This results in higher spatial resolution images that can identify fine features on the Earth's surface.

While capturing images in color could be a function of other sensor types, the distinguishing factor for panchromatic sensors lies in their ability to produce sharp, detailed images in monochrome, which can then be used in a variety of analyses that require high detail. Other choices like monitoring weather patterns, analyzing soil samples, and measuring ocean depth pertain to functions served by different types of sensors or methodologies as panchromatic sensors are primarily focused on imaging rather than atmospheric or subsurface analysis.