How does remote sensing enhance the capabilities of GIS?

Remote sensing significantly enhances the capabilities of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) by capturing data from a distance, which improves data accessibility and coverage. This technology involves the use of satellite or aerial imagery to gather information about the Earth's surface without direct contact. As a result, large and often inaccessible areas can be monitored and analyzed efficiently.

The spatial data obtained through remote sensing can include various types of information, such as land use, vegetation cover, water bodies, and changes over time. By integrating this data with GIS, users can perform more comprehensive analyses, such as identifying trends, making spatial decisions, and understanding environmental changes.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect how remote sensing enhances GIS capabilities. Relying solely on historical data limits the scope of analysis to past conditions, while creating manual maps and eliminating ground surveys do not take advantage of the technological efficiencies and advancements offered by remote sensing. Thus, option C correctly highlights the core advantages of remote sensing in a GIS context.