Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of remote sensing?

The choice indicating that physical presence on-site is not a characteristic of remote sensing is accurate because remote sensing fundamentally relies on acquiring data from a distance, typically through satellite or aerial technology. This technology allows for the collection of information without the need for someone to be physically present at the location being studied.

In remote sensing, data is gathered using sensors that can capture information in various forms, such as images, radar, or other signals, hence enabling researchers and analysts to monitor areas that might be difficult, dangerous, or impractical to access directly. This advantage opens up vast possibilities for environmental monitoring, agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management, among other applications. The essence of remote sensing lies in its ability to gather and analyze data without direct contact, distinguishing it from other forms of data collection that do require physical presence.