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Manage browse imagery

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 using an app. Sometimes called thumbnails, browse images are typically only three bands, compressed, and have a lower resolution than the original imagery. A requirement of browse imagery is low data volume per image to ensure fast performance when browsing.

Searchable browse imagery is recommended for organizations that want end users to browse and query their imagery collection without loading the full-resolution data.

Mosaic datasets configured for browse imagery directly access the prebuilt browse images and store the metadata in a structured form, enabling detailed search and display.

Image services based on this type of mosaic dataset allow you to search imagery based on attributes and geographic location, and display imagery previews in web maps (the full-resolution images are typically not available to the end user).

Note:
To create and edit mosaic datasets, you'll need ArcGIS Pro (Standard or Advanced). To serve mosaic datasets, you'll need ArcGIS Image Server or ArcGIS Image Dedicated.

Imagery Workflows resources

Review the community-supported tools and best practices for working with and automating imagery and remote sensing workflows:

ArcGIS help

Learn more about using mosaic datasets to manage imagery in ArcGIS Pro.

Training and tutorials

Watch Managing Raster Data Using ArcGIS to learn how to use mosaic datasets enable efficient data storage and fast visual performance. (2 hours)

Developer resources

Review the following resources and support for automating and customizing workflows:

  • Visit the MDCS GitHub repository to download a Python script to help automate the creation and configuration of mosaic datasets.
  • If you plan to manage satellite imagery in the cloud or want to optimize the data format for faster access, visit the OptimizeRasters GitHub repository for scripts and tools for data transfer and management.

Esri Community

Visit the Esri Imagery and Remote Sensing community to connect, collaborate, and share experiences regarding managing browse imagery.

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