A High-Level Survey of Optical Remote Sensing

TL;DR

This survey provides a comprehensive high-level overview of optical remote sensing, highlighting recent advances, datasets, and methodologies to guide new researchers in the field.

Contribution

It offers the first holistic survey covering diverse tasks, capabilities, and datasets in optical remote sensing, serving as a foundational guide for newcomers.

Findings

Summarizes key datasets and methodologies in optical remote sensing.

Highlights recent advances driven by computer vision and drone technology.

Identifies gaps and future directions for research in the field.

Abstract

In recent years, significant advances in computer vision have also propelled progress in remote sensing. Concurrently, the use of drones has expanded, with many organizations incorporating them into their operations. Most drones are equipped by default with RGB cameras, which are both robust and among the easiest sensors to use and interpret. The body of literature on optical remote sensing is vast, encompassing diverse tasks, capabilities, and methodologies. Each task or methodology could warrant a dedicated survey. This work provides a comprehensive overview of the capabilities of the field, while also presenting key information, such as datasets and insights. It aims to serve as a guide for researchers entering the field, offering high-level insights and helping them focus on areas most relevant to their interests. To the best of our knowledge, no existing survey addresses this holistic perspective.