Remote sensing

The BGR's remote sensing department examines the earth's surface across scales and over different time periods in order to better understand its properties and the processes taking place on it. In doing so, remote sensing data is used in an application-oriented way and methods are developed that are important for many different uses – from small-scale investigations to supra-regional analyses.

Remote Sensing overview

Remote sensing data is collected in various ways – using satellites, aircraft, helicopters and drones. In addition, measuring instruments are often used directly on the ground or in the laboratory to supplement the observations. The BGR's remote sensing is based on and combines multispectral- and hyperspectral methods, radar technology and thermal remote sensing.
The focus is on the application of remote sensing methods and the development of new and automated methods and standards for analyzing and extracting detailed information.

Remote sensing methods are used and developed to carry out tasks and applications in Germany and abroad for the exploration, mapping and assessment of geological, raw materials, pedological and water management issues, as well as geohazards.

For example, the German Ground Motion Service (BBD) was implemented.
The standardized basic product of the BBD is based on Copernicus Sentinel -1 data.

The Remote Sensing Section of BGR works closely with various departments of the BGR. Together with national and international partners – including geological surveys, research institutes and companies – a wide range of issues relating to the application and further development of remote sensing methods are addressed. In this way, the BGR's Remote Sensing Section fulfils its mission of providing neutral and competent advice to politicians, society and industry based on the current state of science and technology.

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