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.
Organizations often want end users to browse and query their imagery collection without loading the full-resolution data. Searchable browse imagery is often a good solution. (For an example application that uses browse imagery, see Landsat Look Viewer.)
Mosaic datasets configured for browse imagery do the following two things:
- Directly access the prebuilt browse images
- 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).
Explore the following resources to learn more about managing browse imagery. (Not sure where to start? Look for the star by Esri's most helpful resources.)
Note:
To create and edit mosaic datasets, you'll need ArcGIS Desktop (Standard or Advanced). To serve mosaic datasets, you'll need ArcGIS Image Server.Imagery Workflows resources
Review the community-supported tools and best practices for working with and automating imagery and remote sensing workflows:
- Read a description of best practices for managing browse imagery.*
- Download sample Python scripts for automating the management of browse imagery using best practices.*
- Download sample browse imagery to use with the sample Python scripts.
- Read about best practices for creating mosaic datasets and structuring and formatting imagery and rasters.
ArcGIS help
Review the following links on reference materials for ArcGIS products:
- Learn more about using mosaic datasets to manage imagery in ArcGIS Pro.
Training and tutorials
Review the following guided lessons and tutorials based on real-world problems and key ArcGIS skills:
- 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
Use the online imagery community to connect, collaborate, and share experiences:
- Visit the Esri Imagery and Remote Sensing community to connect, collaborate, and share experiences regarding managing browse imagery.