The politics of pixels: A review and agenda for critical remote sensing

We offer a review and research agenda for critical remote sensing, defined as inquiries and scientific practices cognizant of the embedding of power within the production, analysis, and instrumentalization of satellite imagery. First, we consider critiques of the satellite gaze. Second, we chronicle...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inProgress in human geography Vol. 46; no. 3; pp. 729 - 752
Main Authors Bennett, Mia M, Chen, Janice K, Alvarez León, Luis F, Gleason, Colin J
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published London, England SAGE Publications 01.06.2022
Sage Publications Ltd
Subjects
Embedding
Human geography
Imagery
Marginality
Political economy
Remote sensing
Reviews
Satellite imagery
Satellites
Technology
Trade
satellites
Earth observation
critical remote sensing
digital geography
big data
Remote sensing
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Summary:We offer a review and research agenda for critical remote sensing, defined as inquiries and scientific practices cognizant of the embedding of power within the production, analysis, and instrumentalization of satellite imagery. First, we consider critiques of the satellite gaze. Second, we chronicle remote sensing’s evolving political economy, examining the technology’s use by governments, scientists, and commercial and non-governmental actors. Then, we review practices of critical remote sensing, categorized as research (1) exposing injustices; (2) engaging situated knowledges; and (3) empowering marginalized actors. Lastly, we suggest five areas for intertwining critiques and practices and consider possibilities for counter–remote sensing.
ISSN:0309-1325
1477-0288
DOI:10.1177/03091325221074691