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Traditionally maps have been used to explore the Earth and its resources. GIS technology, expands the science of cartography enhancing the efficiency and analytic power of traditional mapping. As a technology it is becoming an essential tool in the understanding of modern day global change. It allows for map and satellite information sources to be combined in modes that simulate the interactions of complex natural systems. This is referred to as integration of images. The condition of the Earth's surface, atmosphere, and subsurface can be examined by feeding satellite data into a GIS. GIS technology gives researchers the ability to examine the variations in Earth processes over days, months, and years. As an example, the changes in vegetation vigor through a growing season can be animated to determine when drought was most extensive in a particular region. The resulting graphic, known as a normalized vegetation index, represents a rough measure of plant health. Explore this web site which gives practical examples of GIS use.
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