Satellite Image Analysis Page 1 of 4 Digital image processing is the process of manipulating digital images using computer techniques, with the intention to improve the appearance of the image. The four basic operations within the field of digital image processing are: image restoration, image enhancement, image classification and image transformation. The human eye is extremely proficient at visually interpreting data, as humans are capable of distinguishing millions of different colours, as well as many different patterns, textures and features. However our ability to perceive small differences in colour, especially grey, is limited. Usually data is collected using 256 shades of grey, yet an analyst can distinguish about 9 of them, and as a result there is the potential for an immense amount of information to be lost. Computers are able to differentiate all 256 shades of grey, but also allow data to be combined, enhanced and contrasted, accurately with both ease and speed. The use of computer techniques for processing digital data is also advantageous, as it permits large volumes of detailed data to be handled but also ensures that the process is not subjective and that the process is repeatable. In all aspects of remote sensing visual analysis plays a very important role; despite the extent of digital intervention therefore the process of image enhancement is extremely beneficial. There is a broad range of enhancement techniques, although the central procedures within this area are contrast stretch, digital filtering and composite generation. Now examine Image Analysis using a graphics package | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Page 1 of 4