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Definitions

Below is a directory of terms used in discussions about remote sensing for natural disasters. Most of the terms have been reproduced from the Canada Centre for Remote Sensing and the UN Department of Humanitarian Affairs.

New technologies have the potential to accelerate a country's development, but a global technology gap remains.

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V

Visible band

The part of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be perceived by the naked eye. This band ranges from 7500 ang. to 4000 ang.

Volcano

The mountain formed by local accumulation of volcanic materials around an erupting vent.

Vulnerability

Degree of loss (measured as a percentage) resulting from a potentially damaging phenomenon.

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Flickr/Nazir Amin

Science for oceans

Our Spotlight examines how countries can make better use of scientific tools for sustainable management of marine resources
Buoys gather real-time data that feed into ocean hazard warnings and rescue missions : NOAA

Buoy vandals

Countries must step up measures against damage of data buoys that puts early warning systems at risk
WHO/TDR/Crump

Mini cures

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Electrifying Africa

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Kenyan farmer selling vegetables by Flickr/ Biodiversity International

Tech community power

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Malaria drug boost

Copious amounts of artemisinin have been made from a lowly by-product of its extraction process
Engineers - Flickr/Engineering at Cambridge

Forgotten engineers

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A collection of articles that asks how solar power can improve access to electricity for the rural poor

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