Which type of imagers are commonly used in agriculture to detect crop distress?

Multispectral imagers are commonly used in agriculture to detect crop distress because they capture data across various wavelengths beyond the visible spectrum. These imagers can analyze different reflective properties of crops by using specific bands of light, including those in the near-infrared range, which are particularly useful for assessing plant health. Healthy vegetation reflects significantly more near-infrared light compared to stressed or diseased plants. By examining these variations, farmers can identify areas of crop distress that may not be visible to the naked eye, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding irrigation, fertilization, or pest control.

Monochromatic imagers capture data in a single wavelength, which limits their ability to differentiate between the various conditions of crops. Infrared imagers, while useful, are typically classified under multispectral systems that include multiple bands, including infrared. Color imagers provide visual images in standard colors, but they lack the detailed spectral information needed to effectively analyze the health and stress levels of crops. This makes multispectral systems the most effective for agricultural monitoring and management.