Chapter 6

Remote Sensing in Precision Agriculture

Microwave Remote Sensing

Microwave remote sensing operates in the microwave portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, generally using wavelengths greater than 1 cm and up to 1 m. Microwaves are sensitive to different physical parameters than other regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Microwave interactions with objects are governed by geometric (structure, size, shape) and dielectric (water content) properties, whereas other regions of the electromagnetic spectrum react, e.g., to object temperature or “color” (amount of reflection or absorption of the Sunlight by a particular object).

Applications of Microwave Remote Sensing in Precision Agriculture

Depending on the type of system, microwave remote sensing can be used in multiple applications. Active sensors are principally used for diverse land cover mapping applications based on the particular backscattering mechanisms and characteristics of the objects on the Earth’s surface.

Limitations of Microwave Remote Sensing in Precision Agriculture

Radar remote sensing limitations include difficulty distinguishing between objects with similar surface textures, susceptibility to interference from weather conditions, limited resolution depending on the system, inability to perceive color, the potential for signal saturation from large nearby objects, and challenges in interpreting data due to its dependence on surface geometry and water content rather than visual appearance.

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