Which types of imagery are used in GEOINT?

Imagery used in Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) encompasses a variety of techniques and sensors that capture data from the Earth’s surface. The correct choice includes optical, radar, infrared, and multispectral imagery, all of which are fundamental components of GEOINT.

Optical imagery captures visible light and is typically used for mapping, land use analysis, and monitoring environmental changes. Radar imagery utilizes radio waves to penetrate clouds and provide data regardless of weather conditions or light, making it invaluable for all-weather surveillance and terrain analysis. Infrared imagery detects heat and is instrumental in identifying objects based on their thermal signatures, which can indicate activities such as vehicle movement or fire detection. Multispectral imagery captures data across different wavelengths, allowing for detailed analysis of vegetation health, water quality, and other surface materials based on their unique spectral signatures.

The other options refer to imagery types that either do not align with standard GEOINT practices or involve methodologies that are not primarily focused on geospatial analysis. For instance, thermal and sonar can provide useful data but are not commonly classified together in the context of GEOINT. Similarly, X-ray and molecular imagery pertain more to medical or scientific analysis rather than geospatial applications. Digital, augmented, virtual, and holographic imagery relate