Remote sensing is a better technique than traditional methods because remote sensing devices react to a much wider range of radiations reflected, emitted, absorbed and transmitted by all object surfaces, whereas human eyes and photographic systems respond only to a minute portion of the total energy.

Additionally, remote sensing involves a recording device (sensor) that is not in physical contact with the objects and phenomena being studied. This allows for data collection without direct interaction with the target.

Remote sensors are characterized by spatial, spectral and radiometric resolutions that enable extraction of useful information about different terrain conditions. These resolutions allow distinguishing closely spaced objects, sensing in different bands of EMR, and detecting even smaller radiance differences between targets.