Remote sensing is an innovative science and technology that is aiding in
numerous modes of transportation. Almost every aspect of transportation can benefit
from utilizing imagery and data. Specifically, these technologies can be applied to
planning, environmental impact assessment, hazard and disaster response, infrastructure
management, traffic assessment, and homeland security planning (“Transportation and
Remote Sensing,” 1999). The United States transportation system is a critical component
of our economy and mobility (Williamson, Morain, Budge, & Hepner, 2002). There are
millions of miles of roadways and bridges to monitor and maintain. In addition, remote
sensing can be utilized towards the development and planning of new infrastructure and
transportation systems. Remote sensing provides the unique ability to detect changes in
our transportation system on a real-time basis. Imagery can be collected from multiple
platforms, including satellite, aircraft-based, and ground-based, which allows data
collection to be tailored to a particular transportation application.
This paper will provide an overview of some of the potential applications of
remote sensing in transportation. Due to the broad scope of this topic, several modes will
not be discussed including aviation and marine. The main focus will be on ground
transportation, infrastructure, and homeland security as it relates to transportation
applications. Emerging technologies, such as hyperspectral remote sensing and LIDAR,
will also be discussed. In addition, the Nebraska Airborne Remote Sensing Facility, one
of only a few operating in the United States will be described. Two tribal communities in
Nebraska are utilizing the data collected from the facility to address transportation issues.
An Assessment of Remote Sensing Applications in Transportatio