Exploring Earth's Surface Through Remote Sensing

Earth Educators' Rendezvous

Monday, July 15, 2024, 1:30pm-4:00pm ET
Philadelphia, PA, July 15-19, 2024
Afternoon Mini Workshop

Elizabeth R. Joyner, Earth Science Data Systems, Community Coordinator
Mike P. Taylor, NASA Landsat Communications and Public Engagement Outreach Specialist

Workshop Homepage

Overview:

This hands-on mini-workshop introduces participants to the exciting world of remote sensing for studying Earth's surface. We will guide participants through remote sensing, from understanding the fundamental principles behind remote sensing within NASA's Earth Science Directorate, to actively collecting and analyzing data, and finally accessing Landsat data for Temple University’s location to analyze. This fun and hands-on session has something for everyone.

Target Audience:

The workshop is designed for educators, researchers, and anyone interested in leveraging NASA’s remote sensing data for studying Earth. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, we aim to inspire participants to integrate remote sensing tools into their instruction.

Goals:

Through participation in this workshop, participants will gain:

• An introductory understanding of basic remote sensing concepts
• Hands-on experience with data collection using STELLA
• Skill in accessing and downloading satellite data using AppEEARS
• Access to valuable NASA Earth Science resources for continued learning and exploration

Workshop Activities:

• Introduction to Remote Sensing: An overview will equip participants with the foundational knowledge of remote sensing techniques.
• Building and Using STELLA: Participants will actively work with the STELLA handheld DIY instrument to collect surface reflectance measurements outdoors (weather permitting). 
• Data Analysis with AppEEARS: We will delve into AppEEARS, a user-friendly tool for accessing Landsat surface reflectance satellite data. Participants will utilize this platform to explore and compare observations from different time periods.
• NASA Earth Science Resources: The workshop will conclude by providing participants with valuable resources and datasets from NASA's Earth Science Data Systems. These resources can be readily integrated into classroom activities, research projects, and future exploration of our planet from a remote sensing perspective.

DRAFT Agenda: 

Requirements:

• Prior to the workshop, please register with an Earthdata login. This login will be required to follow along with the training. The Earthdata Login provides a simple, centralized mechanism for user registration and user profile management for all users accessing data. The information provided by users when they register for Earthdata Login helps NASA better understand how our data are being used and the diverse needs of multiple user communities. NOTE: It is not an “account”, nor is it an “authentication”.

• Need a little help? View Earthdata Login Tips: https://go.nasa.gov/44HooLE

• Please bring a fully-charged laptop.