In 2023, Google Maps was the most downloaded map and navigation app in the United States, despite being a standard pre-installed app on Android smartphones. Waze followed, with 9.89 million downloads in the examined period. The app, which comes with maps and the possibility to access information on traffic via users reports, was developed in 2006 by the homonymous Waze company, acquired by Google in 2013.

Usage of navigation apps in the U.S. As of 2021, less than two in 10 U.S. adults were using a voice assistant in their cars, in order to place voice calls or follow voice directions to a destination. Navigation apps generally offer the possibility for users to download maps to access when offline. Native iOS app Apple Maps, which does not offer this possibility, was by far the navigation app with the highest data consumption, while Google-owned Waze used only 0.23 MB per 20 minutes.

Usage of navigation apps worldwide In July 2022, Google Maps was the second most popular Google-owned mobile app, with 13.35 million downloads from global users during the examined month. In China, the Gaode Map app, which is operated along with other navigation services by the Alibaba owned AutoNavi, had approximately 730 million monthly active users as of September 2022.

Cartography is the knowledge associated with the art, science, and technology of maps. Maps portray spatial relationships among selected phenomena of interest and increasingly are used for analysis and synthesis. Through digital cartography and web mapping, however, it is possible for almost anyone to produce a bad map in minutes. Although cartography has undergone a radical transformation through the introduction of digital technology, fundamental principles remain. Doing computer cartography well requires a broad understanding of graphicacy as a language (as well as numeracy and literacy). This course provides an introduction to the principles, concepts, software, and hardware necessary to produce good maps, especially in the context (and limitations) of geographic information systems (GIS) and the web.

You will be asked to work through a series of modules that present information relating to a specific topic. You will also complete a series of cartography projects to reinforce the material. Lastly, you will complete term projects. Please see the sequencing document for our suggestions as to the order in which to work through the material. We have also provided PDF versions of the lectures with the notes included.

This application is intended for informational purposes only and is not an operational product. The tool provides the capability to access, view and interact with satellite imagery, and shows the latest view of Earth as it appears from space.For additional imagery from NOAA's GOES East and GOES West satellites, please visit our Imagery and Data page or our cooperative institute partners at CIRA and CIMSS.This website should not be used to support operational observation, forecasting, emergency, or disaster mitigation operations, either public or private. In addition, we do not provide weather forecasts on this site — that is the mission of the National Weather Service. Please contact them for any forecast questions or issues. Using the Maps​What does the Layering Options icon mean?The Layering Options widget provides a list of operational layers and their symbols, and allows you to turn individual layers on and off. The order in which layers appear in this widget corresponds to the layer order in the map. The top layer ‘checked’ will indicate what you are viewing in the map, and you may be unable to view the layers below.Layers with expansion arrows indicate that they contain sublayers or subtypes.Do these maps work on mobile devices and different browsers?Yes!Why are there black stripes / missing data on the map?NOAA Satellite Maps is for informational purposes only and is not an operational product; there are times when data is not available.Why are the North and South Poles dark?The raw satellite data used in these web map apps goes through several processing steps after it has been acquired from space. These steps translate the raw data into geospatial data and imagery projected onto a map. NOAA Satellite Maps uses the Mercator projection to portray the Earth's 3D surface in two dimensions. This Mercator projection does not include data at 80 degrees north and south latitude due to distortion, which is why the poles appear black in these maps. NOAA's polar satellites are a critical resource in acquiring operational data at the poles of the Earth and some of this imagery is available on our website (for example, here ).Why does the imagery load slowly?This map viewer does not load pre-generated web-ready graphics and animations like many satellite imagery apps you may be used to seeing. Instead, it downloads geospatial data from our data servers through a Map Service, and the app in your browser renders the imagery in real-time. Each pixel needs to be rendered and geolocated on the web map for it to load.How can I get the raw data and download the GIS World File for the images I choose?NOAA Satellite Maps offers an interoperable map service to the public. Use the camera tool to select the area of the map you would like to capture and click ‘download GIS WorldFile.’The geospatial data Map Service for the NOAA Satellite Maps GOES satellite imagery is located on our Satellite Maps ArcGIS REST Web Service ( available here ).We support open information sharing and integration through this RESTful Service, which can be used by a multitude of GIS software packages and web map applications (both open and licensed).Data is for display purposes only, and should not be used operationally.Are there any restrictions on using this imagery?NOAA supports an open data policy and we encourage publication of imagery from NOAA Satellite Maps; when doing so, please cite it as "NOAA" and also consider including a permalink (such as this one) to allow others to explore the imagery.For acknowledgment in scientific journals, please use:We acknowledge the use of imagery from the NOAA Satellite Maps application: LINKThis imagery is not copyrighted. You may use this material for educational or informational purposes, including photo collections, textbooks, public exhibits, computer graphical simulations and internet web pages. This general permission extends to personal web pages. About this satellite imageryWhat am I looking at in these maps?What am I seeing in the NOAA Satellite Maps 3D Scene?There are four options to choose from, each depicting a different view of the Earth using the latest satellite imagery available. The first three views show the Western Hemisphere and the Pacific Ocean, as captured by the NOAA GOES East (GOES-16) and GOES West (GOES-17) satellites. These images are updated approximately every 15 minutes as we receive data from the satellites in space. The three views show GeoColor, infrared and water vapor. See our other FAQs to learn more about what the imagery layering options depict.The fourth option is a global view, captured by NOAA’s polar-orbiting satellites (NOAA/NASA Suomi NPP and NOAA-20). The polar satellites circle the globe 14 times a day, taking in one complete view of the Earth in daylight every 24 hours. This composite view is what is projected onto the 3D map scene each morning, so you are seeing how the Earth looked from space one day ago.What am I seeing in the Latest 24 Hrs. GOES Constellation Map?In this map you are seeing the past 24 hours (updated approximately every 15 minutes) of the Western Hemisphere and Pacific Ocean, as seen by the NOAA GOES East (GOES-16) and GOES West (GOES-17) satellites. In this map you can also view three different ‘layers’. The three views show ‘GeoColor’ ‘infrared’ and ‘water vapor’.(Please note: GOES West imagery is currently only available in GeoColor. The infrared and water vapor imagery will be available in Spring 2019.)This maps shows the coverage area of the GOES East and GOES West satellites. GOES East, which orbits the Earth from 75.2 degrees west longitude, provides a continuous view of the Western Hemisphere, from the West Coast of Africa to North and South America. GOES West, which orbits the Earth at 137.2 degrees west longitude, sees western North and South America and the central and eastern Pacific Ocean all the way to New Zealand.What am I seeing in the Global Archive Map?In this map, you will see the whole Earth as captured each day by our polar satellites, based on our multi-year archive of data. This data is provided by NOAA’s polar orbiting satellites (NOAA/NASA Suomi NPP from January 2014 to April 19, 2018 and NOAA-20 from April 20, 2018 to today). The polar satellites circle the globe 14 times a day taking in one complete view of the Earth every 24 hours. This complete view is what is projected onto the flat map scene each morning.What does the GOES GeoColor imagery show?The 'Merged GeoColor’ map shows the coverage area of the GOES East and GOES West satellites and includes the entire Western Hemisphere and most of the Pacific Ocean. This imagery uses a combination of visible and infrared channels and is updated approximately every 15 minutes in real time. GeoColor imagery approximates how the human eye would see Earth from space during daylight hours, and is created by combining several of the spectral channels from the Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) – the primary instrument on the GOES satellites. The wavelengths of reflected sunlight from the red and blue portions of the spectrum are merged with a simulated green wavelength component, creating RGB (red-green-blue) imagery. At night, infrared imagery shows high clouds as white and low clouds and fog as light blue. The static city lights background basemap is derived from a single composite image from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Day Night Band. For example, temporary power outages will not be visible. Learn more.What does the GOES infrared map show?The 'GOES infrared' map displays heat radiating off of clouds and the surface of the Earth and is updated every 15 minutes in near real time. Higher clouds colorized in orange often correspond to more active weather systems. This infrared band is one of 12 channels on the Advanced Baseline Imager, the primary instrument on both the GOES East and West satellites. on the GOES the multiple GOES East ABI sensor’s infrared bands, and is updated every 15 minutes in real time. Infrared satellite imagery can be "colorized" or "color-enhanced" to bring out details in cloud patterns. These color enhancements are useful to meteorologists because they signify “brightness temperatures,” which are approximately the temperature of the radiating body, whether it be a cloud or the Earth’s surface. In this imagery, yellow and orange areas signify taller/colder clouds, which often correlate with more active weather systems. Blue areas are usually “clear sky,” while pale white areas typically indicate low-level clouds. During a hurricane, cloud top temperatures will be higher (and colder), and therefore appear dark red. This imagery is derived from band #13 on the GOES East and GOES West Advanced Baseline Imager.How does infrared satellite imagery work?The infrared (IR) band detects radiation that is emitted by the Earth’s surface, atmosphere and clouds, in the “infrared window” portion of the spectrum. The radiation has a wavelength near 10.3 micrometers, and the term “window” means that it passes through the atmosphere with relatively little absorption by gases such as water vapor. It is useful for estimating the emitting temperature of the Earth’s surface and cloud tops. A major advantage of the IR band is that it can sense energy at night, so this imagery is available 24 hours a day.What do the colors on the infrared map represent?In this imagery, yellow and orange areas signify taller/colder clouds, which often correlate with more active weather systems. Blue areas are clear sky, while pale white areas indicate low-level clouds, or potentially frozen surfaces. Learn more about this weather imagery.What does the GOES water vapor map layer show?The GOES ‘water vapor’ map displays the concentration and location of clouds and water vapor in the atmosphere and shows data from both the GOES East and GOES West satellites. Imagery is updated approximately every 15 minutes in

The Digital Geomorphic-GIS Map of Gulf Islands National Seashore (5-meter accuracy and 1-foot resolution 2006-2007 mapping), Mississippi and Florida is composed of GIS data layers and GIS tables, and is available in the following GRI-supported GIS data formats: 1.) a 10.1 file geodatabase (guis_geomorphology.gdb), a 2.) Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) geopackage, and 3.) 2.2 KMZ/KML file for use in Google Earth, however, this format version of the map is limited in data layers presented and in access to GRI ancillary table information. The file geodatabase format is supported with a 1.) ArcGIS Pro map file (.mapx) file (guis_geomorphology.mapx) and individual Pro layer (.lyrx) files (for each GIS data layer), as well as with a 2.) 10.1 ArcMap (.mxd) map document (guis_geomorphology.mxd) and individual 10.1 layer (.lyr) files (for each GIS data layer). The OGC geopackage is supported with a QGIS project (.qgz) file. Upon request, the GIS data is also available in ESRI 10.1 shapefile format. Contact Stephanie O'Meara (see contact information below) to acquire the GIS data in these GIS data formats. In addition to the GIS data and supporting GIS files, three additional files comprise a GRI digital geologic-GIS dataset or map: 1.) A GIS readme file (guis_geology_gis_readme.pdf), 2.) the GRI ancillary map information document (.pdf) file (guis_geomorphology.pdf) which contains geologic unit descriptions, as well as other ancillary map information and graphics from the source map(s) used by the GRI in the production of the GRI digital geologic-GIS data for the park, and 3.) a user-friendly FAQ PDF version of the metadata (guis_geomorphology_metadata_faq.pdf). Please read the guis_geology_gis_readme.pdf for information pertaining to the proper extraction of the GIS data and other map files. Google Earth software is available for free at: https://www.google.com/earth/versions/. QGIS software is available for free at: https://www.qgis.org/en/site/. Users are encouraged to only use the Google Earth data for basic visualization, and to use the GIS data for any type of data analysis or investigation. The data were completed as a component of the Geologic Resources Inventory (GRI) program, a National Park Service (NPS) Inventory and Monitoring (I&M) Division funded program that is administered by the NPS Geologic Resources Division (GRD). For a complete listing of GRI products visit the GRI publications webpage: For a complete listing of GRI products visit the GRI publications webpage: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/geology/geologic-resources-inventory-products.htm. For more information about the Geologic Resources Inventory Program visit the GRI webpage: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/geology/gri,htm. At the bottom of that webpage is a "Contact Us" link if you need additional information. You may also directly contact the program coordinator, Jason Kenworthy (jason_kenworthy@nps.gov). Source geologic maps and data used to complete this GRI digital dataset were provided by the following: U.S. Geological Survey. Detailed information concerning the sources used and their contribution the GRI product are listed in the Source Citation section(s) of this metadata record (guis_geomorphology_metadata.txt or guis_geomorphology_metadata_faq.pdf). Users of this data are cautioned about the locational accuracy of features within this dataset. Based on the source map scale of 1:26,000 and United States National Map Accuracy Standards features are within (horizontally) 13.2 meters or 43.3 feet of their actual location as presented by this dataset. Users of this data should thus not assume the location of features is exactly where they are portrayed in Google Earth, ArcGIS, QGIS or other software used to display this dataset. All GIS and ancillary tables were produced as per the NPS GRI Geology-GIS Geodatabase Data Model v. 2.3. (available at: https://www.nps.gov/articles/gri-geodatabase-model.htm).

This is a raster-based suitability map of landfill sites produced after the February 6, 2023, Türkiye earthquakes centred on Kahramanmaraş - Pazarcık and Kahramanmaraş - Elbistan. In this study, a site selection model was developed using open-source Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software and the Best-Worst Method (BWM), one of the Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Methods, to determine the most suitable landfill areas immediately after the earthquake.The suitability map of the landfill sites can be accessed through the Serverless Cloud-GIS based Disaster Management Portal at https://web.itu.edu.tr/metemu/nominal/deprem.htmlThe pairwise comparison matrix, weight calculation, and sensitivity analysis are also provided in the MS Excel file.

Chapter 3: Multiuser Concepts and Workflow Replicability in sUAS Applications Jason A. Tullis, Katie Corcoran, Richard Ham, Bandana Kar, and Malcolm Williamson Advances in high spatial resolution mapping capabilities and the new rules established by the Federal Aviation Administration in the United States for the operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) have provided new opportunities to acquire aerial data at a lower cost and more safely versus other methods. A similar opening of the skies for sUAS applications is being allowed in countries across the world. Also, sUAS can access hazardous or inaccessible areas during disaster events and provide rapid response when needed. Applications of Small Unmanned Aircraft systems: Best Practices and Case Studies is the first book that brings together the best practices of sUAS applied to a broad range of issues in high spatial resolution mapping projects. Very few sUAS pilots have the knowledge of how the collected imagery is processed into value added mapping products that have commercial and/or academic import. Since the field of sUAS applications is just a few years old, this book covers the need for a compendium of case studies to guide the planning, data collection, and most importantly data processing and map error issues, with the range of sensors available to the user community. Written by experienced academics and professionals, this book serves as a guide on how to formulate sUAS based projects, from choice of a sUAS, flight planning for a particular application, sensors and data acquisition, data processing software, mapping software and use of the high spatial resolution maps produced for particular types of geospatial modeling.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s Make a Topographic Map is a mapping application that features the best available topographic data and imagery for Ontario. You can: * easily toggle between traditional map backgrounds and high-resolution imagery * choose to overlay the topographic information with the imagery * turn satellite imagery on or off * customize your map by adding your own text * print your custom map Data features include: * roads * trails * lakes * rivers * wooded areas * wetlands * provincial parks * municipal, township and other administrative boundaries You don’t need special software or licenses to use this application. Technical information Using cached imagery and topographic data, the application provides a fast, seamless display at pre-defined scales. The caches are updated annually.

This Story Map highlights a transportation safety effort undertaken by Northern Arizona Council of Governments (NACOG), communicating information about roadway crashes, network safety screening for roadway segments and intersections, associated statistics, identified emphasis areas based on frequency of crash manner and circumstances, and ultimately the priority infrastructure improvement projects that are recommended to mitigate contributing factors to these crashes. The Story Map intertwines the fundamental pieces of the full Regional Transportation Safety Plan and the appropriate GIS data to create a public-facing experience that shares intentions, methodologies, results, and progress in a transparent and concise manner.Datasets Used: Roadways, Intersections – AZ All Roads Network, ADOT Crash Data – Arizona Crash Information System, ADOT

Software Used: ArcGIS Pro ArcGIS Story Maps

The datasets used in the creation of the predicted Habitat Suitability models includes the CWHR range maps of Californias regularly-occurring vertebrates which were digitized as GIS layers to support the predictions of the CWHR System software. These vector datasets of CWHR range maps are one component of California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR), a comprehensive information system and predictive model for Californias wildlife. The CWHR System was developed to support habitat conservation and management, land use planning, impact assessment, education, and research involving terrestrial vertebrates in California. CWHR contains information on life history, management status, geographic distribution, and habitat relationships for wildlife species known to occur regularly in California. Range maps represent the maximum, current geographic extent of each species within California. They were originally delineated at a scale of 1:5,000,000 by species-level experts and have gradually been revised at a scale of 1:1,000,000. For more information about CWHR, visit the CWHR webpage (https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR). The webpage provides links to download CWHR data and user documents such as a look up table of available range maps including species code, species name, and range map revision history; a full set of CWHR GIS data; .pdf files of each range map or species life history accounts; and a User Guide.The models also used the CALFIRE-FRAP compiled "best available" land cover data known as Fveg. This compilation dataset was created as a single data layer, to support the various analyses required for the Forest and Rangeland Assessment, a legislatively mandated function. These data are being updated to support on-going analyses and to prepare for the next FRAP assessment in 2015. An accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of habitat types within California is required for a variety of legislatively-mandated government functions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protections CALFIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), in cooperation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife VegCamp program and extensive use of USDA Forest Service Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) data, has compiled the "best available" land cover data available for California into a single comprehensive statewide data set. The data span a period from approximately 1990 to 2014. Typically the most current, detailed and consistent data were collected for various regions of the state. Decision rules were developed that controlled which layers were given priority in areas of overlap. Cross-walks were used to compile the various sources into the common classification scheme, the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) system.CWHR range data was used together with the FVEG vegetation maps and CWHR habitat suitability ranks to create Predicted Habitat Suitability maps for species. The Predicted Habitat Suitability maps show the mean habitat suitability score for the species, as defined in CWHR. CWHR defines habitat suitability as NO SUITABILITY (0), LOW (0.33), MEDIUM (0.66), or HIGH (1) for reproduction, cover, and feeding for each species in each habitat stage (habitat type, size, and density combination). The mean is the average of the reproduction, cover, and feeding scores, and can be interpreted as LOW (less than 0.34), MEDIUM (0.34-0.66), and HIGH (greater than 0.66) suitability. Note that habitat suitability ranks were developed based on habitat patch sizes >40 acres in size, and are best interpreted for habitat patches >200 acres in size. The CWHR Predicted Habitat Suitability rasters are named according to the 4 digit alpha-numeric species CWHR ID code. The CWHR Species Lookup Table contains a record for each species including its CWHR ID, scientific name, common name, and range map revision history (available for download at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR).

5-Digit and 3-Digit ZIP Code data for Maptitude mapping software are from Caliper Corporation and contain boundaries and demographic data.

TanDEM-X Forest/Non-Forest (FNF) map(s) have been one such data focusing on the status of global forest coverage, which has played an essential role in combating climate change. Although the producers have carried out verification and comparison analyses, the need for accuracy assessments in a broader sense creates uncertainties for the users to approve the new data. For this purpose, TanDEM-X 50 m FNF maps were exclusively examined visually through 66,000 test grids within 30 geocells selected from temperate, boreal, and tropical forest zones. Thus, it was aimed to provide product accuracy utilizing visual inspections to the end users of TanDEM-X FNF maps. In addition, Collect Earth (CE) software was used to evaluate the dataset visually, and its advantages or disadvantages were compared with similarly designed studies. Consequently, even though the producers’ data sets were found to have an accuracy of around 85 percent, it was observed that there were some issues, especially in the definition of the “non-forest” class. CE software was found to be helpful in such studies. However, the dependence of the analyses on geo-browser supplied imagery had some limitations in estimating the accuracy of a new dataset.

The datasets used in the creation of the predicted Habitat Suitability models includes the CWHR range maps of California's regularly-occurring vertebrates which were digitized as GIS layers to support the predictions of the CWHR System software. These vector datasets of CWHR range maps are one component of California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR), a comprehensive information system and predictive model for California's wildlife. The CWHR System was developed to support habitat conservation and management, land use planning, impact assessment, education, and research involving terrestrial vertebrates in California. CWHR contains information on life history, management status, geographic distribution, and habitat relationships for wildlife species known to occur regularly in California. Range maps represent the maximum, current geographic extent of each species within California. They were originally delineated at a scale of 1:5,000,000 by species-level experts and have gradually been revised at a scale of 1:1,000,000. For more information about CWHR, visit the CWHR webpage ( https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR ). The webpage provides links to download CWHR data and user documents such as a look up table of available range maps including species code, species name, and range map revision history; a full set of CWHR GIS data; .pdf files of each range map or species life history accounts; and a User Guide.The models also used the CALFIRE-FRAP compiled "best available" land cover data known as Fveg. This compilation dataset was created as a single data layer, to support the various analyses required for the Forest and Rangeland Assessment, a legislatively mandated function. These data are being updated to support on-going analyses and to prepare for the next FRAP assessment in 2015. An accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of habitat types within California is required for a variety of legislatively-mandated government functions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection's CALFIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), in cooperation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife VegCamp program and extensive use of USDA Forest Service Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) data, has compiled the "best available" land cover data available for California into a single comprehensive statewide data set. The data span a period from approximately 1990 to 2014. Typically the most current, detailed and consistent data were collected for various regions of the state. Decision rules were developed that controlled which layers were given priority in areas of overlap. Cross-walks were used to compile the various sources into the common classification scheme, the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) system.CWHR range data was used together with the FVEG vegetation maps and CWHR habitat suitability ranks to create Predicted Habitat Suitability maps for species. The Predicted Habitat Suitability maps show the mean habitat suitability score for the species, as defined in CWHR. CWHR defines habitat suitability as NO SUITABILITY (0), LOW (0.33), MEDIUM (0.66), or HIGH (1) for reproduction, cover, and feeding for each species in each habitat stage (habitat type, size, and density combination). The mean is the average of the reproduction, cover, and feeding scores, and can be interpreted as LOW (less than 0.34), MEDIUM (0.34-0.66), and HIGH (greater than 0.66) suitability. Note that habitat suitability ranks were developed based on habitat patch sizes >40 acres in size, and are best interpreted for habitat patches >200 acres in size.The CWHR Predicted Habitat Suitability rasters are named according to the 4 digit alpha-numeric species CWHR ID code. The CWHR Species Lookup Table contains a record for each species including its CWHR ID, scientific name, common name, and range map revision history (available for download at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR ).

The datasets used in the creation of the predicted Habitat Suitability models includes the CWHR range maps of Californias regularly-occurring vertebrates which were digitized as GIS layers to support the predictions of the CWHR System software. These vector datasets of CWHR range maps are one component of California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR), a comprehensive information system and predictive model for Californias wildlife. The CWHR System was developed to support habitat conservation and management, land use planning, impact assessment, education, and research involving terrestrial vertebrates in California. CWHR contains information on life history, management status, geographic distribution, and habitat relationships for wildlife species known to occur regularly in California. Range maps represent the maximum, current geographic extent of each species within California. They were originally delineated at a scale of 1:5,000,000 by species-level experts and have gradually been revised at a scale of 1:1,000,000. For more information about CWHR, visit the CWHR webpage (https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR). The webpage provides links to download CWHR data and user documents such as a look up table of available range maps including species code, species name, and range map revision history; a full set of CWHR GIS data; .pdf files of each range map or species life history accounts; and a User Guide.The models also used the CALFIRE-FRAP compiled "best available" land cover data known as Fveg. This compilation dataset was created as a single data layer, to support the various analyses required for the Forest and Rangeland Assessment, a legislatively mandated function. These data are being updated to support on-going analyses and to prepare for the next FRAP assessment in 2015. An accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of habitat types within California is required for a variety of legislatively-mandated government functions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protections CALFIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), in cooperation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife VegCamp program and extensive use of USDA Forest Service Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) data, has compiled the "best available" land cover data available for California into a single comprehensive statewide data set. The data span a period from approximately 1990 to 2014. Typically the most current, detailed and consistent data were collected for various regions of the state. Decision rules were developed that controlled which layers were given priority in areas of overlap. Cross-walks were used to compile the various sources into the common classification scheme, the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) system.CWHR range data was used together with the FVEG vegetation maps and CWHR habitat suitability ranks to create Predicted Habitat Suitability maps for species. The Predicted Habitat Suitability maps show the mean habitat suitability score for the species, as defined in CWHR. CWHR defines habitat suitability as NO SUITABILITY (0), LOW (0.33), MEDIUM (0.66), or HIGH (1) for reproduction, cover, and feeding for each species in each habitat stage (habitat type, size, and density combination). The mean is the average of the reproduction, cover, and feeding scores, and can be interpreted as LOW (less than 0.34), MEDIUM (0.34-0.66), and HIGH (greater than 0.66) suitability. Note that habitat suitability ranks were developed based on habitat patch sizes >40 acres in size, and are best interpreted for habitat patches >200 acres in size. The CWHR Predicted Habitat Suitability rasters are named according to the 4 digit alpha-numeric species CWHR ID code. The CWHR Species Lookup Table contains a record for each species including its CWHR ID, scientific name, common name, and range map revision history (available for download at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR).

High-density linkage maps are important tools for genome biology and evolutionary genetics by quantifying the extent of recombination, linkage disequilibrium and chromosomal rearrangements across chromosomes, sexes and populations. They provide one of the best ways to validate and refine de novo genome assemblies, with the power to identify errors in assemblies increasing with marker density. However, assembly of high-density linkage maps is still challenging due to software limitations. We describe Lep-MAP2, a software for ultra-dense genome-wide linkage map construction. Lep-MAP2 can handle various family structures and can account for achiasmatic meiosis to gain linkage map accuracy. Simulations show that Lep-MAP2 outperforms other available mapping software both in computational efficiency and accuracy. When applied to two large F2-generation recombinant crosses between two nine-spined stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) populations, it produced two high-density (~6 markers/cM) linkage maps containing 18 691 and 20 054 SNPs. The two maps showed a high degree of synteny, but female maps were 1.5 to 2 times longer than male maps in all linkage groups, suggesting genome-wide recombination suppression in males. Comparison with the genome sequence of the three-spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) revealed a high degree of interspecific synteny with a low frequency (<5%) of interchromosomal re-arrangements. However, a fairly large (ca. 10Mb) translocation from autosome to sex chromosome was detected in both maps. These results illustrate the utility and novel features of Lep-MAP2 in assembling high-density linkage maps, and their usefulness in revealing evolutionarily interesting properties of genomes, such as strong genome-wide sex-bias in recombination rates.

The datasets used in the creation of the predicted Habitat Suitability models includes the CWHR range maps of Californias regularly-occurring vertebrates which were digitized as GIS layers to support the predictions of the CWHR System software. These vector datasets of CWHR range maps are one component of California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR), a comprehensive information system and predictive model for Californias wildlife. The CWHR System was developed to support habitat conservation and management, land use planning, impact assessment, education, and research involving terrestrial vertebrates in California. CWHR contains information on life history, management status, geographic distribution, and habitat relationships for wildlife species known to occur regularly in California. Range maps represent the maximum, current geographic extent of each species within California. They were originally delineated at a scale of 1:5,000,000 by species-level experts and have gradually been revised at a scale of 1:1,000,000. For more information about CWHR, visit the CWHR webpage (https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR). The webpage provides links to download CWHR data and user documents such as a look up table of available range maps including species code, species name, and range map revision history; a full set of CWHR GIS data; .pdf files of each range map or species life history accounts; and a User Guide.The models also used the CALFIRE-FRAP compiled "best available" land cover data known as Fveg. This compilation dataset was created as a single data layer, to support the various analyses required for the Forest and Rangeland Assessment, a legislatively mandated function. These data are being updated to support on-going analyses and to prepare for the next FRAP assessment in 2015. An accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of habitat types within California is required for a variety of legislatively-mandated government functions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protections CALFIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), in cooperation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife VegCamp program and extensive use of USDA Forest Service Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) data, has compiled the "best available" land cover data available for California into a single comprehensive statewide data set. The data span a period from approximately 1990 to 2014. Typically the most current, detailed and consistent data were collected for various regions of the state. Decision rules were developed that controlled which layers were given priority in areas of overlap. Cross-walks were used to compile the various sources into the common classification scheme, the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) system.CWHR range data was used together with the FVEG vegetation maps and CWHR habitat suitability ranks to create Predicted Habitat Suitability maps for species. The Predicted Habitat Suitability maps show the mean habitat suitability score for the species, as defined in CWHR. CWHR defines habitat suitability as NO SUITABILITY (0), LOW (0.33), MEDIUM (0.66), or HIGH (1) for reproduction, cover, and feeding for each species in each habitat stage (habitat type, size, and density combination). The mean is the average of the reproduction, cover, and feeding scores, and can be interpreted as LOW (less than 0.34), MEDIUM (0.34-0.66), and HIGH (greater than 0.66) suitability. Note that habitat suitability ranks were developed based on habitat patch sizes >40 acres in size, and are best interpreted for habitat patches >200 acres in size. The CWHR Predicted Habitat Suitability rasters are named according to the 4 digit alpha-numeric species CWHR ID code. The CWHR Species Lookup Table contains a record for each species including its CWHR ID, scientific name, common name, and range map revision history (available for download at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR).

Geographic Information System Software Market Outlook

The global Geographic Information System (GIS) Software market size was valued at approximately USD 7.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 15.6 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.3% during the forecast period. This impressive growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for efficient data management tools across various industries, which rely on spatial data for decision-making and strategic planning. The rapid advancements in technology, such as the integration of AI and IoT with GIS software, have further propelled the market, enabling organizations to harness the full potential of geographic data in innovative ways.

One of the primary growth drivers of the GIS Software market is the burgeoning need for urban planning and smart city initiatives worldwide. As urbanization trends escalate, cities are increasingly relying on GIS technology to manage resources more effectively, optimize transportation networks, and enhance public safety. The ability of GIS software to provide real-time data and spatial analysis is vital for city planners and administrators faced with the challenges of modern urban environments. Furthermore, the trend towards digital transformation in governmental organizations is boosting the adoption of GIS solutions, as they seek to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.

The agricultural sector is also experiencing significant transformations due to the integration of GIS software, which is another pivotal growth factor for the market. Precision agriculture, which involves the use of GIS technologies to monitor and manage farming practices, is enabling farmers to increase crop yields while reducing resource consumption. By leveraging spatial data, farmers can make informed decisions about planting, irrigation, and harvesting, ultimately leading to more sustainable agricultural practices. This trend is particularly prominent in regions where agriculture forms a substantial portion of the economy, encouraging the adoption of advanced GIS tools to maintain competitive advantage.

Another influential factor contributing to the growth of the GIS Software market is the increasing importance of environmental management and disaster response. GIS technology plays a crucial role in assessing environmental changes, managing natural resources, and planning responses to natural disasters. The ability to overlay various data sets onto geographic maps allows for better analysis and understanding of environmental phenomena, making GIS indispensable in tackling issues such as climate change and resource depletion. Moreover, governments and organizations are investing heavily in GIS tools that aid in disaster preparedness and response, ensuring timely and effective action during emergencies.

The evolution of GIS Mapping Software has been instrumental in transforming how spatial data is utilized across various sectors. These software solutions offer robust tools for visualizing, analyzing, and interpreting geographic data, enabling users to make informed decisions based on spatial insights. With the ability to integrate multiple data sources, GIS Mapping Software provides a comprehensive platform for conducting spatial analysis, which is crucial for applications ranging from urban planning to environmental management. As technology continues to advance, the capabilities of GIS Mapping Software are expanding, offering more sophisticated features such as 3D visualization and real-time data processing. These advancements are not only enhancing the utility of GIS tools but also making them more accessible to a wider range of users, thereby driving their adoption across different industries.

Regionally, North America and Europe have traditionally dominated the GIS Software market, thanks to their robust technological infrastructure and higher adoption rates of advanced technologies. However, Asia Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by rapid urbanization, increased government spending on infrastructure development, and the expanding telecommunications sector. The growing awareness and adoption of GIS solutions in countries like China and India are significant contributors to this regional growth. Furthermore, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa regions are slowly catching up, with ongoing investments in smart city projects and infrastructure development driving the demand for GIS software.

Component Analysis</h2&

To deliver sample estimates provided with the necessary probability foundation to permit generalization from the sample data subset to the whole target population being sampled, probability sampling strategies are required to satisfy three necessary not sufficient conditions: (i) All inclusion probabilities be greater than zero in the target population to be sampled. If some sampling units have an inclusion probability of zero, then a map accuracy assessment does not represent the entire target region depicted in the map to be assessed. (ii) The inclusion probabilities must be: (a) knowable for nonsampled units and (b) known for those units selected in the sample: since the inclusion probability determines the weight attached to each sampling unit in the accuracy estimation formulas, if the inclusion probabilities are unknown, so are the estimation weights. This original work presents a novel (to the best of these authors' knowledge, the first) probability sampling protocol for quality assessment and comparison of thematic maps generated from spaceborne/airborne Very High Resolution (VHR) images, where: (I) an original Categorical Variable Pair Similarity Index (CVPSI, proposed in two different formulations) is estimated as a fuzzy degree of match between a reference and a test semantic vocabulary, which may not coincide, and (II) both symbolic pixel-based thematic quality indicators (TQIs) and sub-symbolic object-based spatial quality indicators (SQIs) are estimated with a degree of uncertainty in measurement in compliance with the well-known Quality Assurance Framework for Earth Observation (QA4EO) guidelines. Like a decision-tree, any protocol (guidelines for best practice) comprises a set of rules, equivalent to structural knowledge, and an order of presentation of the rule set, known as procedural knowledge. The combination of these two levels of knowledge makes an original protocol worth more than the sum of its parts. The several degrees of novelty of the proposed probability sampling protocol are highlighted in this paper, at the levels of understanding of both structural and procedural knowledge, in comparison with related multi-disciplinary works selected from the existing literature. In the experimental session the proposed protocol is tested for accuracy validation of preliminary classification maps automatically generated by the Satellite Image Automatic MapperTM (SIAMTM) software product from two WorldView-2 images and one QuickBird-2 image provided by DigitalGlobe for testing purposes. In these experiments, collected TQIs and SQIs are statistically valid, statistically significant, consistent across maps and in agreement with theoretical expectations, visual (qualitative) evidence and quantitative quality indexes of operativeness (OQIs) claimed for SIAMTM by related papers. As a subsidiary conclusion, the statistically consistent and statistically significant accuracy validation of the SIAMTM pre-classification maps proposed in this contribution, together with OQIs claimed for SIAMTM by related works, make the operational (automatic, accurate, near real-time, robust, scalable) SIAMTM software product eligible for opening up new inter-disciplinary research and market opportunities in accordance with the visionary goal of the Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) initiative and the QA4EO international guidelines. Overlapping area matrices between:(A) the QuickBird-like Satellite Image Automatic MapperTM (Q-SIAMTM) preliminary classification maps at fine, intermediate, coarse semantic granularity (52, 28 and 12 spectral categories) generated from three very high resolution (VHR) test images: WorldView-2 T1, WorldView-2 T2, QuickBird-2 and(B) Reference thematic samples belonging to 7 land cover classes, selected by Michael Humber in the three VHR test images.Quality indicators of an Overlapping area matrix: Overall accuracy, Producer's accuracy, User's accuracy, Categorical Variable Pair Similarity Index.Files contain three test maps each: Q-SIAMTM at fine, intermediate, coarse granularity; One reference land cover class set: 7

The datasets used in the creation of the predicted Habitat Suitability models includes the CWHR range maps of Californias regularly-occurring vertebrates which were digitized as GIS layers to support the predictions of the CWHR System software. These vector datasets of CWHR range maps are one component of California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR), a comprehensive information system and predictive model for Californias wildlife. The CWHR System was developed to support habitat conservation and management, land use planning, impact assessment, education, and research involving terrestrial vertebrates in California. CWHR contains information on life history, management status, geographic distribution, and habitat relationships for wildlife species known to occur regularly in California. Range maps represent the maximum, current geographic extent of each species within California. They were originally delineated at a scale of 1:5,000,000 by species-level experts and have gradually been revised at a scale of 1:1,000,000. For more information about CWHR, visit the CWHR webpage (https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR). The webpage provides links to download CWHR data and user documents such as a look up table of available range maps including species code, species name, and range map revision history; a full set of CWHR GIS data; .pdf files of each range map or species life history accounts; and a User Guide.The models also used the CALFIRE-FRAP compiled "best available" land cover data known as Fveg. This compilation dataset was created as a single data layer, to support the various analyses required for the Forest and Rangeland Assessment, a legislatively mandated function. These data are being updated to support on-going analyses and to prepare for the next FRAP assessment in 2015. An accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of habitat types within California is required for a variety of legislatively-mandated government functions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protections CALFIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), in cooperation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife VegCamp program and extensive use of USDA Forest Service Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) data, has compiled the "best available" land cover data available for California into a single comprehensive statewide data set. The data span a period from approximately 1990 to 2014. Typically the most current, detailed and consistent data were collected for various regions of the state. Decision rules were developed that controlled which layers were given priority in areas of overlap. Cross-walks were used to compile the various sources into the common classification scheme, the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) system.CWHR range data was used together with the FVEG vegetation maps and CWHR habitat suitability ranks to create Predicted Habitat Suitability maps for species. The Predicted Habitat Suitability maps show the mean habitat suitability score for the species, as defined in CWHR. CWHR defines habitat suitability as NO SUITABILITY (0), LOW (0.33), MEDIUM (0.66), or HIGH (1) for reproduction, cover, and feeding for each species in each habitat stage (habitat type, size, and density combination). The mean is the average of the reproduction, cover, and feeding scores, and can be interpreted as LOW (less than 0.34), MEDIUM (0.34-0.66), and HIGH (greater than 0.66) suitability. Note that habitat suitability ranks were developed based on habitat patch sizes >40 acres in size, and are best interpreted for habitat patches >200 acres in size. The CWHR Predicted Habitat Suitability rasters are named according to the 4 digit alpha-numeric species CWHR ID code. The CWHR Species Lookup Table contains a record for each species including its CWHR ID, scientific name, common name, and range map revision history (available for download at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR).

The datasets used in the creation of the predicted Habitat Suitability models includes the CWHR range maps of Californias regularly-occurring vertebrates which were digitized as GIS layers to support the predictions of the CWHR System software. These vector datasets of CWHR range maps are one component of California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR), a comprehensive information system and predictive model for Californias wildlife. The CWHR System was developed to support habitat conservation and management, land use planning, impact assessment, education, and research involving terrestrial vertebrates in California. CWHR contains information on life history, management status, geographic distribution, and habitat relationships for wildlife species known to occur regularly in California. Range maps represent the maximum, current geographic extent of each species within California. They were originally delineated at a scale of 1:5,000,000 by species-level experts and have gradually been revised at a scale of 1:1,000,000. For more information about CWHR, visit the CWHR webpage (https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR). The webpage provides links to download CWHR data and user documents such as a look up table of available range maps including species code, species name, and range map revision history; a full set of CWHR GIS data; .pdf files of each range map or species life history accounts; and a User Guide.The models also used the CALFIRE-FRAP compiled "best available" land cover data known as Fveg. This compilation dataset was created as a single data layer, to support the various analyses required for the Forest and Rangeland Assessment, a legislatively mandated function. These data are being updated to support on-going analyses and to prepare for the next FRAP assessment in 2015. An accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of habitat types within California is required for a variety of legislatively-mandated government functions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protections CALFIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), in cooperation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife VegCamp program and extensive use of USDA Forest Service Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) data, has compiled the "best available" land cover data available for California into a single comprehensive statewide data set. The data span a period from approximately 1990 to 2014. Typically the most current, detailed and consistent data were collected for various regions of the state. Decision rules were developed that controlled which layers were given priority in areas of overlap. Cross-walks were used to compile the various sources into the common classification scheme, the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) system.CWHR range data was used together with the FVEG vegetation maps and CWHR habitat suitability ranks to create Predicted Habitat Suitability maps for species. The Predicted Habitat Suitability maps show the mean habitat suitability score for the species, as defined in CWHR. CWHR defines habitat suitability as NO SUITABILITY (0), LOW (0.33), MEDIUM (0.66), or HIGH (1) for reproduction, cover, and feeding for each species in each habitat stage (habitat type, size, and density combination). The mean is the average of the reproduction, cover, and feeding scores, and can be interpreted as LOW (less than 0.34), MEDIUM (0.34-0.66), and HIGH (greater than 0.66) suitability. Note that habitat suitability ranks were developed based on habitat patch sizes >40 acres in size, and are best interpreted for habitat patches >200 acres in size. The CWHR Predicted Habitat Suitability rasters are named according to the 4 digit alpha-numeric species CWHR ID code. The CWHR Species Lookup Table contains a record for each species including its CWHR ID, scientific name, common name, and range map revision history (available for download at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR).

The datasets used in the creation of the predicted Habitat Suitability models includes the CWHR range maps of Californias regularly-occurring vertebrates which were digitized as GIS layers to support the predictions of the CWHR System software. These vector datasets of CWHR range maps are one component of California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR), a comprehensive information system and predictive model for Californias wildlife. The CWHR System was developed to support habitat conservation and management, land use planning, impact assessment, education, and research involving terrestrial vertebrates in California. CWHR contains information on life history, management status, geographic distribution, and habitat relationships for wildlife species known to occur regularly in California. Range maps represent the maximum, current geographic extent of each species within California. They were originally delineated at a scale of 1:5,000,000 by species-level experts and have gradually been revised at a scale of 1:1,000,000. For more information about CWHR, visit the CWHR webpage (https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR). The webpage provides links to download CWHR data and user documents such as a look up table of available range maps including species code, species name, and range map revision history; a full set of CWHR GIS data; .pdf files of each range map or species life history accounts; and a User Guide.The models also used the CALFIRE-FRAP compiled "best available" land cover data known as Fveg. This compilation dataset was created as a single data layer, to support the various analyses required for the Forest and Rangeland Assessment, a legislatively mandated function. These data are being updated to support on-going analyses and to prepare for the next FRAP assessment in 2015. An accurate depiction of the spatial distribution of habitat types within California is required for a variety of legislatively-mandated government functions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protections CALFIRE Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP), in cooperation with California Department of Fish and Wildlife VegCamp program and extensive use of USDA Forest Service Region 5 Remote Sensing Laboratory (RSL) data, has compiled the "best available" land cover data available for California into a single comprehensive statewide data set. The data span a period from approximately 1990 to 2014. Typically the most current, detailed and consistent data were collected for various regions of the state. Decision rules were developed that controlled which layers were given priority in areas of overlap. Cross-walks were used to compile the various sources into the common classification scheme, the California Wildlife Habitat Relationships (CWHR) system.CWHR range data was used together with the FVEG vegetation maps and CWHR habitat suitability ranks to create Predicted Habitat Suitability maps for species. The Predicted Habitat Suitability maps show the mean habitat suitability score for the species, as defined in CWHR. CWHR defines habitat suitability as NO SUITABILITY (0), LOW (0.33), MEDIUM (0.66), or HIGH (1) for reproduction, cover, and feeding for each species in each habitat stage (habitat type, size, and density combination). The mean is the average of the reproduction, cover, and feeding scores, and can be interpreted as LOW (less than 0.34), MEDIUM (0.34-0.66), and HIGH (greater than 0.66) suitability. Note that habitat suitability ranks were developed based on habitat patch sizes >40 acres in size, and are best interpreted for habitat patches >200 acres in size. The CWHR Predicted Habitat Suitability rasters are named according to the 4 digit alpha-numeric species CWHR ID code. The CWHR Species Lookup Table contains a record for each species including its CWHR ID, scientific name, common name, and range map revision history (available for download at https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/Data/CWHR).