Remote Sensing

Throughout most of history, the only tools that map makers had to help them understand and portray the shape of the Earth and its continents were the map maker’s writing implements and their own two legs. It is truly amazing how accurate maps were considering their limited technology. However, maps could vary greatly depending on who created them. Which map makers map was more accurate? It was impossible to know.

In recent decades, technologies have improved dramatically. These technologies allow cartographers, or map makers, to use remote sensing to measure the Earth and create precise maps.

Remote sensing is any technology that can be used to create maps without having to physically touch the territory being described. These remote sensing technologies are often deployed from a plane or satellite.