For example the wavelength range of 0.4µm to 0.5µm (µm = micrometers or 10 -6 m) is one
spectral band. Satellite sensors have been designed to measure responses within particular
spectral bands to enable the discrimination of the major Earth surface materials. Scientists will
choose a particular spectral band for data collection depending on what they wish to examine.
The design of satellite sensors is based on the absorption characteristics of Earth surface
materials across all the measurable parts in the EM spectrum.