Introduction to Raster Data


  • Raster data is pixelated data where each pixel is associated with a specific location.
  • Raster data always has an extent and a resolution.
  • The extent is the geographical area covered by a raster.
  • The resolution is the area covered by each pixel of a raster.

Introduction to Vector Data


  • Vector data structures represent specific features on the Earth’s surface along with attributes of those features.
  • Vector objects are either points, lines, or polygons.

Coordinate Reference Systems


  • All geospatial datasets (raster and vector) are associated with a specific coordinate reference system.
  • A coordinate reference system includes datum, projection, and additional parameters specific to the dataset.

The Geospatial Landscape


  • Many software packages exist for working with geospatial data.
  • Command-line programs allow you to automate and reproduce your work.
  • The RStudio GUI provides a user-friendly interface for working with R.