Aerial Imagery: Interpretation

Aerial images are photographic or digital images captured from a position above the ground. These [Page 23]images provide visual information over a wide area that is difficult to obtain at the ground level. Interpretation is the act of examining these images for the purpose of identifying, characterizing, and measuring objects and phenomena and judging their significance. Interpretation is not considered to be an exact science, and the interpretations are often based on the probability that an object is identified accurately. Successful interpretations depend on practical training and experience, disciplined approaches using knowledge of aerial imagery and application of that knowledge, as well as the inherent talents of the interpreter. Computer technology can aid in interpretation, but final identification by a knowledgeable human is often necessary. ...