If NASA sends a space probe into orbit around Mars, and that probe transmits images of the Martian surface back to Earth, we could say that
A) the space probe is gathering surface data, but it cannot be described as engaging in remote sensing because this is an operation that, by definition, can only be accomplished from Earth orbit.
B) the space probe is generating data for GPS.
C) the space probe is engaging in remote sensing, although it is gathering data from a planet other than Earth.
D) the probe is engaging in aerial photography, although it is taking its "pictures" from outer space.
E) the USGS has programmed the space probe to mimic the work of Earth satellites.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Remote sensing is the process of gathering information about the environment from a distance, typically from sensors that are not in direct contact with the environment being studied. In this case, the space probe is gathering information about the Martian surface from a distance, so it is engaging in remote sensing.

If NASA Sends a Space Probe into Orbit Around Mars