Remote Sensing | Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology

In a data-driven era, geospatial information has become an essential asset, applicable in areas such as urban planning and the monitoring of environmental and natural resources. This data offers vital insights into the spatial aspect of information, facilitating informed decision-making across various sectors. The growing complexity of global issues—like urbanization, climate change, disaster management, and natural resource oversight—has heightened the necessity for precise and timely geospatial data.

The Remote Sensing Group within the Department of Earth and Space Sciences consists of three faculty members dedicated to analyzing geospatial data and advancing geoinformatics. Their research emphasizes the development of innovative methods and techniques for processing and interpreting data obtained from a diverse array of geospatial sensors, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), ground-based systems, and satellite platforms.

The group extensively utilizes data from multispectral, hyperspectral imaging, microwave, LiDAR, and other remote sensing technologies to tackle real-world challenges. Their research encompasses various application domains, such as agriculture, urban studies, coastal zone monitoring, and disaster management. By integrating sophisticated geospatial analytics, machine learning techniques, and multi-sensor data fusion, the Remote Sensing Group makes significant contributions to both scientific research and practical solutions aimed at sustainable development and environmental management.

Beyond research, the group is instrumental in providing the M.Tech program in Geoinformatics, which has been successfully operating since 2013. With an annual enrollment of 10 students, the program draws candidates from open channels as well as from organizations like ISRO and DRDO. Graduates of this program often secure positions in leading geospatial organizations.

The group is also actively involved in several externally funded research projects, supported by national agencies and organizations. These projects focus on cutting-edge technologies and address pressing real-world problems, including climate resilience, smart agriculture, urban sustainability, coastal ecosystem monitoring and disaster preparedness.

Through a blend of cutting-edge research and academic excellence, the Remote Sensing Group continues to contribute to the advancement of geospatial technologies for sustainable development and scientific discovery.

Key Research Areas:

Studying Geoinformatics at IIST

The M.Tech in Geoinformatics program at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the field of geospatial science and technology.
The program admits 10 students annually, including open category and sponsored candidates.
The admission is through valid GATE score as given in the IIST admission portal

Graduates of the program have an excellent track record, finding placements in leading geospatial companies, government agencies, and research institutions, or pursuing doctoral studies in India and abroad. The program prepares students to be at the forefront of geospatial innovation, contributing to national development and global scientific advancement.

Remote Sensing lab

The Remote Sensing Lab at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), housed within the Department of Earth and Space Sciences, is a dedicated facility for research and education in the field of geospatial science and technology. The lab supports a wide spectrum of activities in remote sensing, geoinformatics, and spatial data analysis, facilitating both academic learning and advanced research.

Equipped with high-performance computing systems, image processing software, and specialized tools for handling data from hyperspectral, LiDAR, UAV, and satellite-based sensors, the lab enables the development of innovative techniques for geospatial data processing and interpretation.

The Remote Sensing Lab serves as a key resource for the department’s M.Tech in Geoinformatics program, providing students and researchers with hands-on experience in analyzing and applying remote sensing data to real-world problems. Research conducted in the lab spans diverse application areas including agriculture, forestry, urban planning, coastal studies, and disaster management.