ArcGIS Pro also supports the analysis of various types of satellite images by using image processing tools such as classification, change detection, atmospheric correction, and object information extraction. These functionalities allow users to visualize, manipulate, and analyze satellite data efficiently within a geospatial context.
Some of the most common applications of satellite imagery in ArcGIS Pro include monitoring land cover changes, wildfire detection, evaluating water quality, and assessing vegetation and crop health. This section introduces the basic steps for using satellite imagery in ArcGIS Pro, including acquiring imagery from public sources, adding image bands, creating composite images, and calculating vegetation indices such as NDVI.
Obtaining Satellite Imagery
The first step in working with satellite images is acquiring the appropriate imagery. ArcGIS Pro provides several ways to access and add satellite data, including through the use of built-in basemaps or downloading images from free satellite platforms.
Adding a Satellite Image from the Basemap Option
ArcGIS Pro includes a variety of basemaps that offer contextual reference for geospatial data. These basemaps can serve as background layers to assist with navigation, visualization, or orientation in a study area. The available basemaps are provided by Esri and can be accessed directly within the software.
To add a basemap, navigate to the top ribbon and select Map > Layer > Basemap. From there, choose the most appropriate basemap for your analysis. For instance, the “Imagery” option provides a satellite view of the selected area and can be useful for preliminary visual inspection.
While basemap imagery is convenient for reference, it may not reflect the current condition of the area. The resolution and update frequency also vary depending on the location. Therefore, for detailed analysis, higher resolution and time-specific satellite images may be required.
Adding a Satellite Image as a “Basemap”.
Acquiring Free Satellite Images
For users seeking up-to-date and high-resolution satellite data, platforms such as Landsat 8/9 and Sentinel-2 provide free access to downloadable imagery. These platforms offer multi-spectral data suitable for remote sensing tasks and geospatial analysis. After downloading, the images can be imported into ArcGIS Pro for further processing, including band combination and vegetation analysis.