Studio overview
Understand the workspace and connected project model.
Explore →GEOLAYERS TUTORIALEarth
Earth
Observation in GeoLayers
A practical step-by-step guide to earth observation in geolayers in the GeoLayers platform.
Browser-based GISGeoAI + spatial analyticsSouth African context
LEARNING GOAL
Earth Observation in GeoLayers
Use a raster source to calculate an index, inspect values and publish a useful result back to the project.
1. Choose imageryLoad a compatible local GeoTIFF/COG or discover imagery through a supported STAC service. Confirm date, cloud conditions and geographic coverage.
2. Inspect bandsReview the available raster bands and build an RGB composite if that helps you understand the source before analysis.
3. Calculate an indexAssign the required bands and calculate NDVI, NDWI, NDBI or SAVI depending on the question.
4. Inspect the resultUse statistics, histogram and pixel inspection to understand the range rather than interpreting colour alone.
5. Summarise by areaUse project polygons for zonal statistics, then publish or map the resulting raster intelligence for comparison with other project layers.
GOOD PRACTICE
What to check before you finish
A tutorial is complete when the user can explain the result, not just reproduce the clicks.
- Keep source data and assumptions visible in the project.
- Use clear layer and field names that will still make sense when the project is reopened.
- Inspect attributes and metrics before interpreting a visual result.
- Save or publish outputs in a form that can be reviewed by another person.
CHECK YOUR WORK
Common quality checks before you move on
A few checks can prevent a technically correct workflow from becoming a misleading output.
- Do not compare scenes with obviously incompatible seasons or severe cloud contamination without accounting for the difference.
- Inspect histograms and value ranges before assigning meaning to colour ramps.
- Treat spectral indices as indicators that may require field or ancillary-data verification.