What is the process of acquiring data about the Earth's surface using satellites called?

The process of acquiring data about the Earth's surface using satellites is referred to as remote sensing. This technique involves gathering information from a distance, typically through sensors mounted on satellites or aircraft, which capture images and data about the Earth's physical characteristics. Remote sensing allows for the analysis of land use, vegetation, water bodies, and urban development, among other applications, by interpreting the data collected to create meaningful geographic information.

Remote sensing is distinct from the other terms listed. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) refers to the technology and processes used to analyze and manage spatial data, but it is a framework for organizing and analyzing data rather than the act of collecting it. Geodesy is the science that deals with the measurement and representation of the Earth’s shape, orientation in space, and gravity field, focusing more on positional accuracy and earth measurements rather than acquiring data through remote means. Bathymetry is the study of underwater depth of ocean floors or river beds, which is a specific subset of data collection rather than the broader scope of satellite-based data acquisition provided by remote sensing.