A Geographic Information System (GIS) takes the information gathered from Global Positioning System (GPS) units and organizes the information into maps. GIS maps are interactive. They allow you to see the map from different angles, to zoom in and out, and to hide selected features. Some GIS programs are designed to help track storms or predict erosion patterns. Other systems, such as the GPS in a car, can provide a map and help you navigate to a particular location. …
A topographic map shows the physical features of Earth. These features can be mountains, rivers, lakes, valleys, craters, and more. Man-made features such as roads may also be included.
In addition to physical features, a topographic map shows the elevation changes of land. Elevation is the height of land above a given level, usually sea level. Elevations are indicated with contour lines. Every point on the map connected to the same line is the same elevation. The lines have …
A map is designed to represent a variety of information. Some maps show where roads are located. Others show the location of tourist attractions or local landmarks. Other maps show weather patterns.
The objects on a map are indicated by symbols. The symbols are pictures that represent something in the real world. The map key or legend tells you what the symbols mean. For example, a picture of an airplane likely means there’s an airport located there.
A map also …
ESRI has made two important changes to the ArcGIS Online platform: an account name change and a new account option.
The GPS satellites are mainly powered by solar energy, or energy from the sun. They do have backup batteries in case of a solar eclipse, and they each have small rocket boosters to keep them moving in the right direction.
Many people would like to assess the accuracy standards for mapping products. In the United States, standards for accuracy assessment have been developed.
The National Map Accuracy Standard (NMAS) provides insurance that maps conform to established accuracy specifications, thereby providing consistency and confidence in their use in geospatial applications.
The following information from the USGS National Geospatial Program Standards Web sitegenerally describes the NMAS.
With a view to the utmost economy and ease in producing maps which fulfill not …
