Remote sensing imagery

This chapter presents the basis of data assimilation by limiting the mathematical developments as much as possible. It emphasizes the data assimilation of remote sensing observations in land surface models, although the assimilation techniques presented can be applied to different kinds of dynamical models. The chapter considers three documents to be benchmarks in their respective fields for anyone who wishes to study them in greater depth. They are as follows: dynamic modeling of natural land surfaces, methodological aspects of data assimilation, and data assimilation applications to hydrology. The chapter introduces different elements of an assimilation system, including a few insights into the dynamic modeling of natural surfaces. Data assimilation and parameter identification, as well as their foundations, are presented from a theoretical point of view. Finally, the chapter describes more practical aspects of data assimilation