What is Stochastic Modeling? Definition, Types, Examples

Stochastic modeling simulates thousands of possible outcomes from random variables. How it works, stochastic vs deterministic, and how cat models use it.

Raster vs. Vector Data: Differences, Formats, and Uses

Raster data is a grid of pixels. Vector data is points, lines, and polygons. How the two GIS data models differ, their formats, and how to combine them.

What is NDVI? Formula, Values, and Uses

NDVI, the normalized difference vegetation index, measures how green and dense vegetation is from red and near-infrared light. The formula, what the values mean, and how to calculate it.

What is Parcel Data? Parcel Numbers, Boundaries, Sources

Parcel data records every piece of land: its boundary, parcel number, owner, land use, and assessed value. Where it comes from and how to use it.

What is LiDAR Data? Point Clouds, USGS 3DEP, Uses

LiDAR data is the set of 3D points produced by a laser scanner that times the return of each pulse to measure distance. Each point has x, y, z coordinates plus intensity and a classification such as ground, building, or vegetation. Airborne LiDAR data maps terrain and structures at centimeter to decimeter accuracy. What LiDAR […]

What is Landsat? Satellites, Bands, Data Access

Landsat is the joint USGS and NASA satellite program that has imaged the Earth’s land surface continuously since 1972, the longest such record in existence. Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 currently deliver 30 m multispectral and 100 m thermal imagery every 8 days combined. All Landsat data is free and open. What Landsat is Landsat […]