Electromagnetic Radiation Principles and Concepts as Applied to Space Remote Sensing

Abstract

Here, we consider a topic which is absolutely central to the successful operation of all satellites and spacecraft, namely, the basic principles and fundamental concepts of visible light in particular and of electromagnetic radiation in general. Both the wavelike nature of light (the speed of light being 300,000 km/s through free space) and its particle-like nature (as photons) are considered. We introduce its wave properties which explain the phenomena of reflection, refraction, diffraction, interference, polarization, and the Doppler effect. The photon properties explain blackbody radiation, continuous spectra, emission spectra, absorption spectra, and the photoelectric effect. We mention how electromagnetic radiation is used actively for radio communications with Earth-orbiting satellites and passively for remote sensing investigations not only of the atmospheres of the Earth and other planets but also of distant stars and the structure of Universe.

“And God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light.” Genesis, chapter 1, verse 3, The Holy Bible, New International Version