Nearest Neighbour
Uses the nearest source cell.
Best used when: classes/categories must be preserved.
Raster Resample
Change raster pixel size/grid resolution using a selected interpolation method.
Shared Raster ToolsEnd-User DocumentationTheory + Formula + Parameters1. What This Feature Does
Change raster pixel size/grid resolution using a selected interpolation method.
Cloud workflow: choose data → configure the scientific method → run → review the resulting layer/report. No programming is required.
2. Recommended Workflow
Choose raster/bands.
↓
Set the target resolution or scale.
↓
Choose resampling method.
↓
Run and compare with the source.
3. Theory, Methods & Equations
Bilinear
Interpolates from four nearby pixels.
z=Σwizi, Σwi=1
Best used when: continuous raster values are used.
Cubic / Lanczos
Uses higher-order neighborhoods for smoother imagery.
Best used when: visual/continuous image resampling is appropriate.
Average
Aggregates source values contributing to an output cell.
z̄=(1/n)Σzi
Best used when: downsampling continuous measurements.
4. Input Data
| Input | Type | Requirement | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Input Raster | raster | Required |
5. Parameters Available in the Application
| Parameter | Default | Choices / Range | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pixel Size Scale | 1 | 0.01 to 100 | 1 original; 2 coarser; 0.5 finer |
| Resampling | bilinear | nearest, bilinear, cubic, average |
6. Output & Interpretation
The result should be interpreted according to the selected method and the physical meaning of the input data. Preserve source units, coordinate reference information, NoData meaning, acquisition date, and preprocessing level when comparing results.
Scientific interpretation: an algorithm can produce a numerically valid result even when the input data are unsuitable. Always check masks, units, sensor characteristics, spatial resolution and reference data.
Important: A smaller output pixel does not create additional source detail.
7. Best Practices
- Use analysis-ready inputs and remove invalid/cloud/noise artifacts that are not part of the target phenomenon.
- Choose parameters from the physical scale of the data, not only from visual appearance.
- Keep categorical and continuous rasters conceptually separate when selecting interpolation/resampling methods.
- Compare the result with the source image and independent reference information.
- Document the settings used when results will be compared across dates, sensors or study areas.