Satellite Imagery and Spatial Data Basics with Open-Source GIS

Earth observation data is no longer reserved for specialized scientists. Today, anyone can access powerful satellite imagery and spatial data to analyze environmental changes, track urban growth, or understand geographical trends. This text-based course guides you from absolute beginner to confidently navigating geographic information systems (GIS) and satellite databases. You will learn how to source high-quality spatial data, process satellite bands, and perform basic spatial analysis using open-source software and public portals. By reading through clear, structured explanations and working through conceptual exercises, you will develop the practical skills needed to interpret the world from above. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational concepts of remote sensing, coordinate systems, and spatial data types. - Locate and retrieve free satellite imagery from major global open-data portals. - Process multi-spectral bands to highlight vegetation, water bodies, and urban areas. - Apply basic spatial analysis techniques using open-source GIS software like QGIS. - Interpret environmental changes and land cover over time using historical satellite datasets. - Work with modern open spatial formats like GeoJSON and Cloud Optimized GeoTIFFs. The course starts with essential terminology and the physics of remote sensing, then moves step-by-step through data acquisition, band combinations, and practical spatial analysis. You will practice through structured written exercises and conceptual walkthroughs that reinforce your learning without needing any complex installations. This course is designed for students, researchers, and curious beginners with no prior background in GIS, geography, or programming. Start exploring our planet from above and unlock the power of spatial data today.