The University of Edinburgh
Observing Earth From Space
The University of Edinburgh

Observing Earth From Space

Iain Woodhouse

Instructor: Iain Woodhouse

Included with Coursera Plus

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

11 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

11 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

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Recently updated!

April 2025

Assessments

4 assignments

Taught in English

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There are 4 modules in this course

We will explore satellite imagery and learn about satellites orbiting Earth. We will also let you browse real data to explore global datasets. Earth observing satellites use measurements of electromagnetic radiation to determine the properties of the surface and atmosphere. Here we investigate the electromagnetic spectrum and how it relates to the measurements we make.

What's included

3 videos11 readings1 assignment2 discussion prompts

Being able to collect data from anywhere on planet Earth at short notice, raises some questions about the ethics of Earth observation. We look at what questions it raises and encourage you to join the discussion. We will then focus on measuring the atmosphere, the thin layer of gas that supports life on Earth. We finally will explore how we use satellites to monitor the oceans. Covering 70% of the surface, the oceans are a significant feature of the Earth System.

What's included

9 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt1 plugin

First, we will look at how satellites measure snow, glaciers, ice sheets, and sea ice. In the next activity, we will consider how satellites can be used to monitor agriculture, forests and forest change. We also look at the impact of deforestation and the link to climate change.

What's included

6 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

Climate change is one of the foremost issues of the day. Here we look at how we measure it, and monitor how it changes. We then consider the impact of natural hazards and look to the future of Earth observation. Finally, we will share some additional resources you may find useful.

What's included

1 video7 readings1 assignment1 plugin

Instructor

Iain Woodhouse
The University of Edinburgh
0 Courses0 learners

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