Understanding Earth observation with open source tools
Earth observation gives us a deeper understanding of our changing world. With the help of satellites, we continuously gather data about landscapes, climate patterns, and human activity. This data is the foundation of remote sensing and geospatial analysis—powerful tools used to identify trends, monitor environmental changes, and create meaningful visualizations.
Thanks to open source tools like QGIS, ESA SNAP, GRASS GIS, and R, this type of analysis is now more accessible than ever. You can edit satellite imagery, apply classification methods, and turn complex datasets into clear maps and actionable insights. These methods are widely used in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, and conservation.
What makes Earth observation truly valuable is the combination of timeliness, accuracy, and scale. Whether you’re tracking deforestation, measuring water levels, or studying land use, the right tools—and the skills to use them—can help you turn raw data into smart, evidence-based decisions.
What will you learn in this blended learning course?Â
In this course, you’ll learn how to analyze satellite data and turn it into meaningful insights. You’ll work with both optical and radar imagery to track landscape changes, monitor climate patterns, and study urban growth.
To do this, you’ll use powerful open source tools like QGIS, ESA SNAP, GRASS GIS, and R. These tools help you prepare imagery, analyze raster data, and detect spatial patterns. As you progress, you’ll also apply land cover classification methods and use dimensionality reduction to simplify complex datasets.
A key focus of the course is the Semi-Automatic Classification Plugin (SCP) in QGIS. This tool makes it easier to classify remote sensing images. Plus, it offers features for downloading satellite data, preprocessing it, and turning it into clear visual outputs.
In addition, you’ll explore radar datasets like ALOS PALSAR, which provide highly detailed imagery for advanced analysis.
By the end of the course, you’ll know how to use these techniques across real-world applications—from environmental monitoring to spatial planning and geo-information projects.
Why choose this course on Earth observation data analysis with open source tools?
Blended learning gives you the best of both worlds—live interaction and flexible self-paced study—so you can build real, job-ready skills in geospatial data analysis. In this course, you’ll get hands-on with tools like QGIS, ESA SNAP, and GRASS GIS, and learn how to turn satellite data into clear, actionable insights.
We start with a live session where you’ll jump right into working with real satellite data. With expert guidance, you’ll learn how to download, prepare, and classify imagery using the SCP plugin in QGIS—making sense of complex datasets from day one.
Then, through our self-paced modules, you’ll continue developing your skills at your own rhythm. You’ll cover key topics like remote sensing fundamentals, satellite image processing, and raster analysis in a GIS environment. You’ll work with both optical and radar data—including ALOS PALSAR—and practice using dimensionality reduction to simplify and analyze large datasets.
In a second live session, you’ll apply what you’ve learned in a realistic analysis task. You’ll refine your workflow, solve challenges, and get feedback as you turn raw imagery into professional-grade results.
What sets this course apart is its focus on real-world application. You’ll tackle case-based exercises that reflect the kinds of projects professionals face in environmental science, land use planning, and remote sensing.
By combining expert-led training with flexible, hands-on learning, this course prepares you to go beyond theory. By the end, you’ll be ready to work independently—processing satellite data, generating insights, and supporting data-driven decisions in your field.