1. Project Vision
The Track 1B Capstone challenges you to build a functional Earth Observation web application. Using the TERRA API, your group will address a specific Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) by creating a tool that solves a real-world geographic problem.
Core Requirements
- Dynamic Data: Must pull live or archival imagery via API.
- User-Focused: Designed for an identified persona (e.g., Farmer, NGO lead, City Planner).
- Scalable: Built with clean, documented code and a modern UI.
2. App Development Framework
Your goal is to transition from Analysis to Accessibility. A successful project doesn't just show data; it empowers a specific audience to take action through an intuitive UI/UX.
🎯 1. Identify Stakeholders
Who is your audience? Define their specific role and the Problem they face that can be solved with Earth Observation.
🧪 2. The GEE Solution
Design the Workflows. How do you process raw satellite data into a clear indicator that provides a solution?
🎨 3. UI/UX Workflow
Convert complex scripts into Accessible Tools. Guide the audience through the analysis without requiring them to see the code.
🌍 4. Final Deployment
Publish as a Public Web Service. Ensure the final app serves the identified stakeholders effectively.
3. Bridging Science and People
Building an app is only half the battle. Your success depends on how effectively you communicate complex Earth Observation data to non-expert audiences. Use these resources from the RSGEE eBook to guide your development.
🗣️ Communication Strategy
- 📖 Public Engagement Overview
- 📖 Science Communication Guide
- 🎨 Mastering UI Widgets
- 💡 Interactive App Examples
- 🖼️ GEE Public Gallery
- ⭐ Awesome GEE Apps (GitHub)
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🌳
Historical Pioneer: Global Forest Change
One of the first and most impactful GEE apps. It translated millions of hours of computation into a simple interface that changed how the world monitors deforestation.
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✨
Live Example: NLCD LULC Explorer
A production-grade GEE app demonstrating professional UI widgets, legends, and dynamic filtering.
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🔍
Live Example: DEM Inspector
Dynamic elevation profiling and terrain analysis tool featuring advanced inspector widgets.
⚙️ App Implementation
Project Milestones
Summary of Big Ideas
- ✓ Solution-First Design: We don't build apps for the sake of technology; we build them to solve human problems in a spatial context.
- ✓ The Power of the Interface: A simple, intuitive button can trigger a complex cloud-based geospatial reducer. Simplification is the ultimate sophistication.