What is the purpose of "change detection" in geospatial intelligence?

The purpose of "change detection" in geospatial intelligence is to determine changes from a baseline in an observable way. This process involves comparing satellite or aerial imagery taken at different times to identify alterations in land use, environmental conditions, urban development, or other phenomena over time. By establishing a baseline, analysts can effectively spot changes, quantify their extent, and understand their implications, which is crucial for various applications such as disaster response, land management, and environmental monitoring.

Utilizing change detection allows decision-makers and stakeholders to react appropriately based on the observed changes, making it a vital component of geospatial analysis that informs strategic planning and operational effectiveness. The strength of change detection lies in its ability to provide clear visual evidence and data-driven insights about evolving conditions in a specific area, highlighting its importance within the field of geospatial intelligence.