Applications of optical devices in environmental science.

[silin]

Are there any applications of optical devices in environmental science? What technologies, companies and research groups are involved?

 

[berkeman]

Are there any applications of optical devices in environmental science? What technologies, companies and research groups are involved?

A few things come to mind... For air quality and other atmospheric properties, I'm sure at least some optical sensors are used. You should be able to find something with that angle. Also, Environmental Science would include the movement of the Earth's plates, I would think, and both lasers and satellite imagery would be used in those studies.

Are you able to find any information on those two topics?

 

[Dr Lots-o'watts]

A ceilometer is a great example.

 

[MATLABdude]

These guys do a bunch of work with laser spectroscopy for gas detection / analysis (DISCLAIMER: friends of mine work there)
http://www.boreal-laser.com/

 

[alphy]

Yes, there are many applications of optical devices in environmental science. Optical devices, such as spectrometers, cameras, and sensors, are used in a variety of ways to study and monitor the environment.

One major application is in remote sensing, where optical devices mounted on satellites or aircraft are used to collect data on the Earth's surface. This data can be used to track changes in land use, vegetation health, and water quality, among other things.

Optical devices are also commonly used in air and water quality monitoring. For example, spectrometers can be used to measure pollutants in the atmosphere, while cameras and sensors can detect changes in water turbidity or algae blooms.

In addition to monitoring, optical devices are also used in environmental research. For instance, advanced imaging techniques, such as hyperspectral imaging, can provide detailed information about soil composition and plant health.

Many companies and research groups are involved in the development and use of optical devices for environmental science. Some notable companies include NASA, which uses satellite-based optical devices for remote sensing, and FLIR Systems, which produces thermal imaging cameras for environmental monitoring.

Research groups from universities and government agencies also play a significant role in advancing the use of optical devices in environmental science. For example, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) uses optical devices to study ocean ecosystems and climate change.

Overall, the use of optical devices in environmental science continues to expand as technology advances and the need for accurate and efficient environmental monitoring grows.