Spectral resolution describes the ability of a sensor to detect electromagnetic radiation at fine wavelength intervals. For example, sensors that can detect energy in a specific, narrow infrared region can generate imagery which clearly distinguishes water from ice. Energy emitted from the Earth can only be detected by the satellite if it is not absorbed by the atmosphere on the way to the satellite. The black box below represents complete atmospheric absorption of infrared energy. In other words, for this specific wavelength no energy reaches the satellite-based sensor and therefore no image can be produced. Adjust the slider to see how weaker atmospheric absorption allows better imagery to be produced. With weak enough absorption, you can begin to see details of this scene: the Ross Ice Shelf and surrounding open water with sea ice. The slider and resulting image correlate with the graphic shown at right.