Qualitative interpretation of remotely sensored data as a key to mapping vegetation patterns in the Western Sudan

Data capabilities of satellites remote sensor systems are briefly discussed. Monthly remotely sensored data of NIMBUS 3 meteorological satellite over parts of the Sudan, West of Lake Chad in Africa, using the HRIR — High Resolution Infra Red Radiometer (sensing between 0.7–1.3 u wavelength) are used to study the monthly shifts in the vegetation boundaries for this area. These shifts are shown to be caused by changes in soil moisture content which is controlled by the prevailing meteorological conditions in the area during the months.