Question

world geography semester exam
why might gis that incorporates remote sensing data be useful to someone trying to find a location for an astronomical observatory? (1 point)

gis could put aerial photographs onto a map, showing ground conditions in potential observatory locations.

gis could display satellite data allowing them to determine locations where light pollution and cloud cover are limited.

gis could show county-level data about the prevalence of higher education so that the observatory could be better staffed.

gis could provide data showing the average temperatures in various locations, allowing them to avoid locations with extreme temperature fluctuations.

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze the requirements for an astronomical observatory. An astronomical observatory needs locations with minimal light pollution and cloud cover for clear observations. Let's evaluate each option:

• Option 1: Showing ground conditions is not the primary concern for an observatory (focus is on sky conditions, not ground).
• Option 2: GIS displaying satellite data to identify areas with limited light pollution and cloud cover directly addresses the key requirements for an observatory's location, as these factors heavily impact astronomical observations.
• Option 3: County - level higher education data is irrelevant to the observatory's location for astronomical purposes (staffing is a secondary concern after location suitability for observation).
• Option 4: Temperature fluctuations are not a critical factor for an astronomical observatory compared to light pollution and cloud cover.

Answer:

B. GIS could display satellite data allowing them to determine locations where light pollution and cloud cover are limited.