Remote Sensing involves the detecting and measuring of electromagnetic energy (usually photons) emanating from materials on the earth's surface, so that the user can identify and categorize these objects by class or type, substance and spatial distribution. Stewart has an interest in DigitalGlobe, the owner of the WorldView 1 satellite which acquires imagery with a pixel resolution of 50cm. This pixel resolution is suitable for most government GIS applications, including the creation of parcel mapping databases. Stewart's remote sensing consultants can provide satellite imagery at a variety of pixel and spectral resolutions and can provide remote sensing training to government agencies.

A major function of remote sensing data is the classification of the myriad of features in a satellite image into meaningful data categories or classes. The image then becomes a thematic map (with each theme being selectable, e.g., land use; geology; vegetation types; rainfall).

There have been significant advances in satellite imaging technology that have resulted in the ability to acquire high resolution satellite image data. Stewart has utilized such imagery for client applications such as:

Geology Water Quality Flood Plain Delineation Change Protection Archaeological Analysis Coastal Erosion Monitoring Drought and Fire Risk Areas

Agriculture Forestry Landuse/Landcover Wetlands Mapping Habitat Mapping Environmental Assessment Disaster Mapping