What characterizes radar remote sensing?

Radar remote sensing is characterized by its use of radio waves to detect and analyze objects. Unlike optical remote sensing, which relies on visible light, radar can penetrate through clouds, rain, and fog, making it effective in various weather conditions. This ability allows for consistent data acquisition day or night, regardless of atmospheric conditions.

The use of radio waves also enables radar systems to measure the distance to a target through the time delay of the returned signals, offering valuable information about the topography and structure of the Earth’s surface. This technology is often employed in applications such as mapping, surface movement detection, and monitoring vegetation and urban development.

Other choices involve mechanisms or conditions not applicable to radar systems. For instance, using visible light pertains to optical imaging technologies, while limitations to clear weather and daylight operations are characteristics of optical sensors, which cannot function effectively under cloudy conditions or at night.