Those working in remote sensing, research, and geospatial analysis frequently face the challenge of managing and interpreting vast amounts of Earth Observation data. This is where NASA’s Visualization, Exploration, and Data Analysis (VEDA) Cockpit becomes a valuable asset. VEDA is a geospatial analytics platform designed to streamline the analysis of satellite data, offering a user-friendly interface for experts and novices alike.

The VEDA Dashboard, launched by NASA, is a new way for researchers, policymakers, and the public to interact with Earth observation data. This platform combines the latest technology with lots of Earth science data, making it easier than ever to explore our planet.

In this article, we will provide an overview of the key features of VEDA Cockpit and demonstrate its capabilities through a practical example in land cover change analysis.

What Is VEDA Cockpit?

VEDA Cockpit is an open-source software developed by NASA to streamline the visualization and analysis of Earth Observation data. It integrates data from various sources, including NASA’s Earth Observing System (EOS), Landsat (managed by NASA and USGS), and ESA’s Sentinel satellites. The platform’s user-friendly interface allows users to process and analyze geospatial datasets, generate insights, and even share results through customizable dashboards.

VEDA offers a suite of tools for tracking land surface, assessing urban expansion, and monitoring climate change impacts, all without the need for extensive programming skills.

Getting Started with VEDA Cockpit

1. Data Catalog – A Universe of Information

Data Catalog is the main part of the VEDA Dashboard. It has lots of Earth observation datasets. Users can find data on climate, land use, atmosphere, and ocean. The catalog lets users study specific environmental issues, from sea ice to urban heat islands. Each dataset has a main description and additional information such as temporal extent, resolution, or links to additional sources. You can find the datasets you are interested in easily by Topics or Source.

2. Exploration – Unlocking New Perspectives

The dashboard’s Exploration tools facilitate spatio-temporal data analysis, rendering it accessible to all users. What I loved during testing this platform was the possibility to visualize your data with different map projections (e.g. Natural Earth or Equal Earth). Additionally, the user is able to:

1. Visualize data dynamically
2. Analyze spatio-temporal trends in self-drawn or uploaded AOI
3. Customize visual outputs
4. Load the layer into GIS as XYZ or WMTS Tile

These features enable users to not only monitor changes on Earth but also to make well-informed decisions based on transparent, evidence-based insights. Unfortunately, not all of the available data can provide complete analyses. However, we see the potential for growth on this platform, particularly with the development of satellite data availability and its easy visualization.

Spatio-temporal analysis of daily precipitation in Germany

Before and after image feature for summer/winter precipitation rates in US

Night light analysis, Rome

Visualization options

3. Data Stories – Inspiration from Researchers Worldwide

One of the most engaging features of the VEDA Dashboard is the Data Stories section, which presents a compelling and accessible means of exploring the data. It is an excellent way to share research results and share geospatial knowledge. This gallery presents actual applications of the platform in real-world contexts. To illustrate,

1. Tracking Volcanic Sulfur Dioxide Emissions: Monitoring of volcanic emissions and its impact on global air quality.
2. Monitoring water cycle: The results of the research demonstrate the extent and anomalies of terrestrial water storage.
3. Mapping Water Availability for Agriculture: Brief explanation of how remote sensing data is used for land modeling.

Each account provides valuable insights and inspiration for future research endeavors.

Veda Data Stories

Final Thoughts

The EarthDATA VEDA Dashboard has some limitations. These include accessibility for non-experts, advanced analytical capabilities, data completeness, real-time updates, user interface intuitiveness, and collaboration features.

However, NASA’s VEDA Cockpit has the potential to be a platform for remote sensing data work. Its easy-to-use interface and tools may help solve geospatial problems. If still developed and improved, VEDA will help turn satellite data into insights.

Why wait? Explore VEDA Cockpit by yourself and use Earth observation technology to monitor our planet!

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