Lake and wetland managers are required to control the spreading of invasive species while preserving the diversity of local plant community. The current ground survey method is time consuming and inaccurate for quantitative analysis. Airborne hyperspectral imaging provides a viable method to map large areas in a short period with required information, like location size and density of certain aquatic vegetation species, extracted in matter of a few weeks.

Hyperspectral imaging is an advanced digital imaging process that non-invasively identifies unique spectral features normally imperceptible to the unaided human eye. No two substances display the same arrangement of unique spectra (colors) in the exact same manner. Through use of hyperspectral imaging sensors, which collect light and heat from selected targets, data is acquired and undergoes unique computer processing to discriminate the individual elements of light. Using the unique spectral signature of each water plants, airborne hyperspectral images can be used to identify the target from the natural habitat. Using this technology, Galileo has worked with customers to map and classify hundreds thousands of acres of aquatic vegetations.

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