Which remote sensing technology can collect data through cloudy conditions?

Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) is the right choice because it operates using microwave frequencies, which allow it to penetrate through clouds and rain. This capability makes SAR particularly valuable for remote sensing applications in varied weather conditions where optical imaging methods would fail due to cloud cover.

Unlike optical imaging, which relies on visible light and can be severely hindered by atmospheric factors, SAR's ability to emit radar signals and process the echoes that bounce back allows it to create high-resolution images regardless of the weather. Additionally, SAR systems can also collect data at night, enhancing their usability in continuous monitoring scenarios.

In contrast, technologies such as LiDAR, while effective at capturing detailed topographical information, rely on laser light, which is similarly affected by atmospheric conditions. Infrared imaging can gather thermal and spectral data but, like optical imaging, can struggle under thick cloud coverage. Therefore, the unique operational characteristics of Synthetic Aperture Radar make it the preferred choice for data collection in adverse weather conditions.