Resolution
Resolution is defined by the size and number of pixels, or cells, used to divide a space. A smaller size and higher number of pixels result in a higher resolution and more detail, while a bigger size and lower number of pixels result in a low resolution and less detail.
In GIS, resolution is specifically important with remote sensing, either taken from satellite or aircraft, where pictures are taken of the earth in order to be analyzed. Higher resolution with these pictures would result in better analysis and conclusions for those using the pictures.
It is also important to consider that higher resolution means a bigger file, which can slow down your work.
There are three facets of resolution: spatial, spectral, and temporal. Spatial resolution refers to the size of object that can be resolved, and the most usual measure is the pixel size[1], or cell size. Cell size can be measured in meters; for example the resolution can be 30m---that means that for every cell in the data, 30 meters are being covered on the ground. [2] Spectral resolution refers to the parts of the electromagnetic spectrum that are measured. Temporal resolution measures how often the images are acquired.
Sources
- ↑ Longley, Paul A. Geographic Information Systems and Science, 2nd edition
- ↑ http://services.arcgisonline.com/arcgisexplorer500/help/raster_cell_size.htm.
| Authors | Ryan Hendricks, Thalassa Jones |
|---|---|
| Editors | Teresa Gomez, Marah Carmona, Andrew Gilbert |
| BoK Topics | GD6 |
| 311 Weeks | 3 |
| Tags | Digital Imaging |
