October 23, 2025
Authors
Advancements in remote sensing technology have paved the way for a deeper understanding of ecological and environmental systems, and thermal infrared (TIR) imaging stands at the forefront of this progress. In their new resource, "Thermal Infrared Remote Sensing: Principles and Applications," published in August 2025 by CRC Press, Exponent ecological and biological scientist Qiuyan Yu, Ph.D., and co-author Ruiliang Pu, Ph.D., deliver a thorough examination of TIR imaging spectral techniques and remote sensing. The book systematically introduces the fundamental concepts, theories, and principles underlying TIR remote sensing, offering readers a solid foundation to appreciate the complexities and advantages of TIR data analysis.
Their book explores the algorithms, techniques, and methods for processing and analyzing TIR data in detail, including radiometric calibration as well as atmospheric correction specific to the TIR region. The authors describe the retrieval of land surface emissivity and temperature (LST) from various TIR sources and elaborate on approaches to downscale LST and TIR radiance both spatially and temporally. They also survey the types of airborne and spaceborne TIR sensors, systems, and missions, providing readers with practical knowledge that bridges theory and real-world application.
The book applies an application-oriented approach, presenting case studies illustrating the effectiveness of these techniques in diverse contexts and a review of state-of-the-art methodologies utilized in hydrology, biomass burning, urban thermal environments, and other areas of interest. The text is a broad-ranging reference and guide for professionals aiming to harness TIR remote sensing in ecological, biological, and environmental applications, equipping scientists, engineers, and agricultural and utility industry stakeholders with tools and insights for tackling contemporary challenges in remote sensing.
From the publication: "By measuring and recording such emitted TIR radiation in parts of the TIR region of the spectrum, TIR sensors/systems can produce very informative data that provide both distinctive signatures and/or indirect indications of TIR properties of Earth's surface materials and atmospheric components."
