Browse imagery is used as a reference to full-resolution imagery. It is usually published so that end users can search, review, and order full-resolution content. Sometimes called thumbnails, browse images are typically only three bands, compressed, and have a lower resolution than the original imagery. A key requirement of browse imagery is low data volume per image to ensure fast performance when browsing.
Organizations often want end users to be able to browse and query their imagery collection without loading the full-resolution data. Easily searchable browse imagery is often a good solution. (For an example application that uses browse imagery, check out Landsat Look Viewer.)
Mosaic datasets configured for browse imagery do two things—they directly access the pre-built browse images, and they store the metadata in a structured form, enabling detailed search and display. Image services based on this type of mosaic dataset let users search imagery based on attributes and geographic location, and make it possible to display imagery previews in web maps (the full-resolution images are typically not made available to the end user). Explore the following resources to learn more about managing browse imagery.
Note:
To create and edit mosaic datasets, you'll need ArcGIS Pro (Standard or Advanced license). To serve mosaic datasets, you'll need ArcGIS Image Server.Top Esri picks
Helpful resources if you aren't sure where to start:
ArcGIS Help documentation
Reference material for ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and ArcGIS Enterprise:
Imagery Workflows resources
Community-supported tools and best practices for working with imagery and automating workflows:
Esri Training
Authoritative learning resources on key ArcGIS skills:
Developer resources
Resources and support for automating and customizing workflows:
Geonet
Online places for the Esri community to connect, collaborate, and share experiences: