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The CSIR Meraka Institute’s Remote Sensing Research Unit (RSRU) was formed in 2005 to build core capabilities in remote sensing and earth observation application development.
This group focus on computationally-intensive remote sensing problems by applying their advanced remote sensing, geomatics, image processing, machine learning and time-series analysis skills. This group comprises electronic engineers, computer scientists and environmental remote sensing specialists.
As a young and dynamic group, we strive to become leaders in our field and improve the overall level of remote sensing in South Africa by advancing remote sensing as a science.
The mission of the RSRU is to conduct strategic remote sensing research, develop world-class scientists and Earth Observation applications that benefit society.
RS refers to the science of identifying, observing and measuring objects from a distance. It involves the measurement of different wavelength radiations, reflected or emitted by objects by which they may be identified, classified and monitored. In our case, we are mostly involved in earth surface properties observed from satellites.
We work closely with universities to improve remote sensing training and post-graduate supervision. We collaborate with various other CSIR business units (e.g. Natural Resources and Environment as well as the South African National Space Agency (SANSA)) and international partners on multiple research projects, ranging from automated feature extraction in the urban environment to regional active fire mapping and land degradation monitoring.
We are currently focusing on four main science themes:
- Time-series analysis of hyper-temporal, medium resolution satellite data for tracking environmental trends and land cover change
- Urban mapping and monitoring using Automated Feature Extraction
- Fire: active fire, burnt area mapping and fire danger modelling
- Near real-time applications using satellite direct broadcasting
Contact: Dr Konrad Wessels +27 12 841 3100 kwessels@csir.co.za
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