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Atmospheric Window in Remote Sensing


The atmospheric window is like a "clear path" in the sky. It means certain parts of sunlight or energy (called electromagnetic radiation) can pass through the Earth's atmosphere without getting blocked. These "clear paths" are very helpful in remote sensing—when we study the Earth using satellites and sensors.

Why are Atmospheric Windows Important?

Just like how we can see clearly through a clean glass window, satellites can "see" the Earth clearly through these atmospheric windows. These windows help in:

  • Taking clear pictures of land, water, and forests

  • Measuring temperature of the Earth's surface

  • Even looking through clouds using special types of energy!

Types of Atmospheric Windows and What They Show

  1. Visible and Near-Infrared (VNIR) Window (0.4 to 1.0 micrometers)

    • This is the light we can mostly see with our eyes

    • Used to observe green plants, water bodies, and land cover

  2. Shortwave Infrared (SWIR) Window (1.0 to 3.0 micrometers)

    • Helps in finding minerals, moisture in soil, and plant health

  3. Mid-Infrared (MIR) Window (3.0 to 8.0 micrometers)

    • Used for studying rocks, soil, and clouds

  4. Thermal Infrared (TIR) Window (8.0 to 14.0 micrometers)

    • Helps measure temperature of the ground

    • Useful to find hot spots like fires or volcanoes

  5. Microwave Window (1 millimeter to 1 meter)

    • Can see through clouds and trees

    • Great for radar images, used in weather tracking and disaster studies

Important Terms – Made Simple

  • Atmospheric Window: A part of light or energy that can pass through the air without much blockage.

  • Electromagnetic Spectrum: The full range of energy waves – from very long radio waves to very short gamma rays.

  • Absorption Band: A part where gases in the atmosphere block the energy.

  • Transmission Window: A part where gases let the energy pass through easily.

TypeWavelength RangeUsed For
VNIR0.4 – 1.0 µmSeeing plants, water, and land from space
SWIR1.0 – 3.0 µmChecking minerals, plant moisture
MIR3.0 – 8.0 µmStudying rocks, soil, clouds
TIR8.0 – 14.0 µmMeasuring heat, surface temperature
Microwave1 mm – 1 mRadar imaging, even through clouds and forests



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