Improved Signal-to-Noise Ratio and Dynamic Range

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Dynamic range refers to the range of brightness that can be captured by a detector element on the sensor of the satellite system. Without good dynamic range, much of the detail would be hidden by either shadow or extreme brightness. A higher dynamic range yields more detail from features that are different yet have similar brightness levels. Since most of the new satellite systems (with the exception of IRS-C) have a significantly higher dynamic range, images will be captured with greater contrast and more detail. This can be particularly important in the winter months when light levels are low and shadows long.

This figure shows an example of an image (on left side) using a higher dynamic range.