Applications of Geospatial Information

The obvious application list for geospatial information is the list of things that maps are used for. But the list is much longer today with the use of computers, both general purpose computers and embedded ones in systems.

In general geospatial information is used in the following (and more.)

• Navigation Applications
  • Paper charts and maps
  • Electronic Charts

• Precision Navigation / Geolocation
  • Transiting confined areas
  • Mine Counter Measures
    • Transiting cleared lanes
    • Making Maps for change analysis

• Out of Sight Targeting
  • Precision Guided Weapons (GPS Guided Munitions)
    • Acquiring data for data base / retrieving data
    • Entering data into weapon system
    • Weapon use of GPS guidance
  • Over the Horizon targeting - long range gunfire etc.

• Geo-referencing data
  • Making maps
  • Tagging information with spatial coordinates in a data base

• Data Fusion
  • Bringing together data for display or analysis of different types and from different sources

• Spatial Analysis of Fused data - Either by a human or a machine
  • Mission Planning
  • Mission Execution
  • Mission Evaluation

In addition there are a number is issues in electronic charts and their uses that are often ignored in paper charts. The issue of integrity of an electronic data base is important. This includes the integrity of any updates. The actual electronic format can be important as in influences that spatial analysis are possible as well as how difficult the updates will be.

Last Modified/Reviewed: 05 February 2003 Approved for public release by Point of Contact: James Clynch Disclaimer, Privacy and Security Notice, and External Links Notice

Material contained herein is made available for the purpose of peer review and discussion and does not necessarily reflect the views of the Department of the Navy or the Department of Defense.