/landsat8-tutorial

A tutorial to describe the process of gathering LANDSAT8 images.

MIT LicenseMIT

Landsat 8

The Landsat 8 is a satellite that images the entire Earth every 16 days in an 8-day offset from Landsat 7. More can be learned about the Landsat 8 through this link.

Image of Landsat 8

Procedure

  1. Account Registration (optional)
    • First, create an account with the EROS Registration System.
    • Note: Account registration is required to download and order scenes.
  2. Search Criteria
    • After registration, visit EarthExplorer.
    • A tab should be visible that says Search Criteria. Within the tab, you can add an address/place, path/row, or feature (ex. Houston, TX). Click on the Show button to display the queue number, latitude and longitude. Click clear to remove the location.
    • The Data Range tab allows for setting specific dates for image results.
    • The Result Options tab returns the number of records.
    • Click the Data Sets tab.
    • For more detailed instruction, consult the help documentation page.
  3. Data Sets
    • Within the Data Sets tab, select the pin Landsat Archive.
    • Under Landsat Archive, select the Pre-Collection pin.
    • Select the L8 OLI/TIRS box.
    • Click the Additional Criteria tab.
  4. Additional Criteria
    • For multiple data sets, use the dropdown to select other options.
    • Click the Results tab.
  5. Results
    • The Data Set should be displayed for the set size previously indicated.
    • In order to download a set, click on the green download arrow / harddrive icon (four icons to the right of the image).
    • Within download options, select Level 1 GeoTIFF Data Product.

Success!

If followed correctly, you've now just downloaded your data set from the Landsat 8 satellite!

Other Notes:

  • To receive the best image quality, choose a data set that has high visibility (low cloud coverage).

  • The Level 1 GeoTIFF Data Product varies in size, approximately 1 GB for a single set of data. Consider internet speeds and contact your ISP if necessary.