Results for “Topographic Map” — Page 2

USGS1964

Topographic mapping: A challenging future

The United States Geological Survey was established by Congress in 1879 to make a systematic study of the geology and natural resources of the United States. To provide the essential base maps for these studies, the Survey immediately began a program of topographic mapping. In 1882 a general plan was adopted for a standard series of general-purpose topographic maps covering the entire country. Today ... the primary job of the Topographic Division of the Geological Survey is to carry out topographic surveys, and to publish the results as quadrangles in the National Topographic Map Series.

Report↗

USGS2013

US Topo: topographic maps for the nation

US Topo is the next generation of topographic maps from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Arranged in the familiar 7.5-minute quadrangle format, digital US Topo maps are designed to look and feel (and perform) like the traditional paper topographic maps for which the USGS is so well known. In contrast to paper-based maps, US Topo maps provide modern technical advantages that support faster, wider public distribution and enable basic, on-screen geographic analysis for all users. The US Topo quadrangle map has been redesigned so that map elements are visually distinguishable with the imagery turned on and off, while keeping the file size as small as possible. The US Topo map redesign includes improvements to various display factors, including symbol definitions (color, line thickness, line symbology, area fills), layer order, and annotation fonts. New features for 2013 include the following: a raster shaded relief layer, military boundaries, cemeteries and post offices, and a US Topo cartographic symbols legend as an attachment. US Topo quadrangle maps are available free on the Web. Each map quadrangle is constructed in GeoPDF® format using key layers of geographic data (orthoimagery, roads, geographic names, topographic contours, and hydrographic features) from The National Map databases. US Topo quadrangle maps can be printed from personal computers or plotters as complete, full-sized, maps or in customized sections, in a user-desired specific format. Paper copies of the maps can also be purchased from the USGS Store. Download links and a users guide are featured on the US Topo Web site. US Topo users can turn geographic data layers on and off as needed; they can zoom in and out to highlight specific features or see a broader area. File size for each digital 7.5-minute quadrangle, about 30 megabytes. Associated electronic tools for geographic analysis are available free for download. The US Topo provides the Nation with a topographic product that users can quickly incorporate into decisionmaking, operational or recreational activities.

Fact Sheet↗

USGS2009

US Topo: Topographic Maps for the Nation

US Topo is the next generation of topographic maps from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Arranged in the familiar 7.5-minute quadrangle format, digital US Topo maps are designed to look and feel (and perform) like the traditional paper topographic maps for which the USGS is so well known. In contrast to paper-based maps, US Topo maps provide modern technical advantages that support faster, wider public distribution and enable basic, on-screen geographic analysis for all users. US Topo maps are available free on the Web. Each map quadrangle is constructed in GeoPDF? format from key layers of geographic data (orthoimagery, roads, geographic names, topographic contours, and hydrographic features) found in The National Map. US Topo quadrangles can be printed from personal computers or plotters as complete, full-sized, maps or in customized sections, in a user-desired specific format. Paper copies of the maps can also be purchased from the USGS Store. Download links and a users guide are featured on the US Topo Web site. US Topo users can turn geographic data layers on and off as needed; they can zoom in and out to highlight specific features or see a broader area. File size for each digital 7.5-minute quadrangle, about 15-20 megabytes, is suitable for most users. Associated electronic tools for geographic analysis are available free for download.

Fact Sheet↗

USGS1987

Field surveying and topographic mapping in Alaska: 1947-83

The U.S. Geological Survey's earliest presence in Alaska dates back to 1889. A decade later, topographic mapping became an integral part of the Geological Survey's Alaska program, mostly as reconnaissance-type mapping and special-purpose mapping of specific sites. It was not until after World War II that the Survey's Alaska topographic mapping efforts began to bear fruit. This circular retraces surveying and topographic mapping by the Geological Survey in Alaska from 1947 to 1983 and describes camp life and some of the unusual happenings involved in working in virtually uninhabited country, adverse weather, and difficult terrain. A year-by-year recap of activities documents the transition from early small-scale mapping efforts to more accurate and detailed 1:63,360-scale mapping for Alaska except the Aleutian Islands and isolated islands in the Bering Sea. Recent 1:25,000-scale metric mapping and the preparation of orthophotographs and special mapping efforts for other Government agencies also are recounted.

Alaska↗

USGS2004

Topographic mapping of Mars: From hectometer to micrometer scales

We describe USGS topomapping of Mars at resolutions from 100 m to 30 µm with data from the latest spacecraft missions. Analysis of NASA 2001 Mars Odyssey Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) data combining daytime visible reflected, daytime IR emitted, and nighttime IR emitted images allows us to isolate the physical effects of topography, albedo, and thermal inertia. To a good approximation these physical influences interact linearly so that maps showing topographic shading, albedo, and relative thermal inertia can be produced by simple algebraic manipulation of the coregistered images. The shading map resembles an airbrush shaded relief portrayal of the surface, and can be used as the input for quantitative reconstruction of topography by photoclinometry (PC) at 100-m resolution over most of the planet. The High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) of the ESA Mars Express orbiter includes a 9-line scanner for color and stereo imaging and a Super-Resolution Channel (SRC). We analyze these images with a combination of USGS ISIS cartographic software and commercial photogrammetric software, providing an independent check on the stereo processing pipeline developed by the HRSC team. In particular, we are producing very high resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) from the SRC images by photoclinometry and by stereoanalysis, using Mars Orbiter Camera images to complete the stereopair. The NASA Mars Exploration Rovers (MER) carry a diverse set of cameras: two wide-angle hazard camera pairs, panoramic stereo imagers (Pancam and Navcam), and a Microscopic Imager (MI) that images a 3-cm-square area at 30 µm/pixel resolution. Our work emphasizes MI data and includes geometric calibration, bundle-adjustment, mosaicking, generation of DEMs by stereo analysis and focal sectioning, and combination of MI images with color data from Pancam. The software being developed to support these analyses can also be used to produce high-precision controlled mosaics, DEMs, and other products from the Pancam and Navcam images.

Conference Paper↗

USGS2009

Landscape features, standards, and semantics in U.S. national topographic mapping databases

The objective of this paper is to examine the contrast between local, field-surveyed topographical representation and feature representation in digital, centralized databases and to clarify their ontological implications. The semantics of these two approaches are contrasted by examining the categorization of features by subject domains inherent to national topographic mapping. When comparing five USGS topographic mapping domain and feature lists, results indicate that multiple semantic meanings and ontology rules were applied to the initial digital database, but were lost as databases became more centralized at national scales, and common semantics were replaced by technological terms.

Book↗

USGS1995

Geologic and topographic maps of the Elysium Paleolake basin, Mars

These geologic and topographic maps show a basin in the Elysium region of Mars that is thought to have been the site of a large paleolake during the most recent period (Amazonian) in Mars’ history (Scott and Chapman, 1991b). The basin, referred to as the Elysium basin, extends for more than 2,000 km across the lowland plains (fig. 1). It is important, not only geologically, but because the amount, location, and duration of liquid water that it may have contained would have been critical factors governing the possible origin and survival of life on Mars. The Elysium basin is the only large depositional basin on Mars where direct evidence, both geologic and topographic, of former water levels and spillways has been found. However, indications of possible paleoshorelines have been observed in several other areas along the highland-lowland boundary (described under Geologic and Physiographic Setting; Parker and others, 1989; De Hon and Pani, 1992; Scott and others, 1992). Our study of the Elysium basin had two objectives, to determine (1) the maximum extent of the basin and (2) the former volume of water in the basin and the sources of this water. To fulfill these objectives, we have compiled this sets of maps. The geologic maps shows the source channels and circumbasin materials, and the topographic map of the paleolake, on a new topographic base, shows former shorelines and drainage channels.

IMAP↗

USGS1997

A digital version of the 1970 U.S. Geological Survey topographic map of the San Francisco Bay region, three sheets, 1:125,000

This Open-File report is a digital topographic map database. It contains a digital version of the 1970 U.S. Geological Survey topographic map of the San Francisco Bay Region (3 sheets), at a scale of 1:125,000. These ARC/INFO coverages are in vector format. The vectorization process has distorted characters representing letters and numbers, as well as some road and other symbols, making them difficult to read in some instances. This pamphlet serves to introduce and describe the digital data. There is no paper map included in the Open-File report. The content and character of the database and methods of obtaining it are described herein.

Open-File Report↗

USGS1962

Portrayal of drainage and vegetation on topographic maps

Accurate measurements of drainage networks are necessary for studies in many scientific disciplines, especially hydrology. To this end, topographic maps must show accurate classification as well as a consistent pattern of the stream network. A recent study in Georgia has developed two photo-interpretive keys which permit accurate drainage classification during the normal stereo-compilation procedures in map-making. The study was made in the Tired Creek basin in the Coastal Plain, and in the Yellow River basin in the Piedmont Province. In the Tired Creek basin, the perennial stream channels were associated with blackgum swamps which showed as a characteristic pattern on the aerial photographs of the area. Although the areas were classed as evergreen forest on specially-compiled vegetation maps without field checking, the classification was relatively consistent, indicating that the perennial channels could be identified accurately within the basin. In the Yellow River basin origins of perennial flow were found in valleys having concave-upward profiles. Valleys with convex-upward profiles remained ephemeral up to their juncture with a larger stream. Field checks indicated better than 80 percent accuracy in delineating these points of origin of perennial flow through stereoscopic viewing of the aerial photographs of the area. Vegetative difference above and below the origins of perennial flow were to subtle to be readily discerned on the photographs. Errors in classifying vegetation on special maps were attributed mainly to inexperience and to faulty criteria for for classification. Proposals are presented to improve portrayal of both drainage and vegetation on topographic maps. The proposed drainage criteria suggest portrayal of all perennial streams as well as ephemeral drainage below the first branching. The proposed vegetation criteria suggest classification of forest and shrubs, with further sub-division of distinctive patterns of vegetation easily recognized on the aerial photographs.

Open-File Report↗

USGS2009

A topographic feature taxonomy for a U.S. national topographic mapping ontology

Using legacy feature lists from the U.S. National Topographic Mapping Program of the twentieth century, a taxonomy of features is presented for purposes of developing a national topographic feature ontology for geographic mapping and analysis. After reviewing published taxonomic classifications, six basic classes are suggested; terrain, surface water, ecological regimes, built-up areas, divisions, and events. Aspects of ontology development are suggested as the taxonomy is described.

Book↗

USGS2010

Creation of next generation U.S. Geological Survey topographic maps

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is 2 years into a 3-year cycle to create new digital topographic map products for the conterminous United States from data acquired and maintained as part of The National Map databases. These products are in the traditional, USGS topographic quadrangle, 7.5-minute (latitude and longitude) cell format. The 3-year cycle was conceived to follow the acquisition of National Aerial Imagery Program (NAIP) orthorectified imagery, a key layer in the new product. In fiscal year (FY) 2009 (ending September 30, 2009), the first year of the 3-year cycle, the USGS produced 13,200 products. These initial products of the “Digital MapBeta” series had limited feature content, including only the NAIP image, some roads, geographic names, and grid and collar information. The products were created in layered georegistered Portable Document Format (PDF) files, allowing users with freely available Adobe® Reader® software to view, print, and perform simple Geographic Information System-like functions. In FY 2010 (ending September 30, 2010), the USGS produced 20,380 products. These products of the “US Topo” series added hydrography (surface water features), contours, and some boundaries. In FY 2011 (ending September 30, 2011), the USGS will complete the initial coverage with US Topo products and will add additional feature content to the maps. The design, development, and production associated with the US Topo products provide management and technical challenges for the USGS and its public and private sector partners. One challenge is the acquisition and maintenance of nationally consistent base map data from multiple sources. Another is the use of these data to create a consistent, current series of cartographic products that can be used by the broad spectrum of traditional topographic map users. Although the USGS and its partners have overcome many of these challenges, many, such as establishing and funding a sustainable base data-maintenance program, remain to be resolved for the long term.

Book↗

USGS2005

Initial results of rover localization and topographic mapping for the 2003 mars exploration rover mission

This paper presents the initial results of lander and rover localization and topographic mapping of the MER 2003 mission (by Sol 225 for Spirit and Sol 206 for Opportunity). The Spirit rover has traversed a distance of 3.2 km (actual distance traveled instead of odometry) and Opportunity at 1.2 km. We localized the landers in the Gusev Crater and on the Meridiani Planum using two-way Doppler radio positioning technology and cartographic triangulations through landmarks visible in both orbital and ground images. Additional high-resolution orbital images were taken to verify the determined lander positions. Visual odometry and bundle-adjustment technologies were applied to overcome wheel slippages, azimuthal angle drift and other navigation errors (as large as 21 percent). We generated timely topographic products including 68 orthophoto maps and 3D Digital Terrain Models, eight horizontal rover traverse maps, vertical traverse profiles up to Sol 214 for Spirit and Sol 62 for Opportunity, and five 3D crater models. A web-based landing-site Geographic Information System (GIS) has been set up at The Ohio State University to update and disseminate the daily localization and topographic information to support tactical and strategic operations of the mission. Also described in this paper are applications of the data for science operations planning, geological traverse survey, survey of wind-related features, and other science applications. The majority of the instruments onboard both rovers are healthy at this moment, and they will continue to explore the two landing sites on the Martian surface. We expect to report further localization and topographic mapping results to be achieved in the rest of the mission period and in post-mission data processing.

Photogrammetric Engineering and Remote Sensing↗

USGS1981

Topographic map of Golden Gate Estates, Collier County, Florida

Construction of canals related to land development in the Golden Gate Estates area of Collier County, Fla., has altered the natural drainage pattern of the watershed. The area of approximately 300 square miles was topographically mapped with a contour interval of 0.5 foot to assist in determining the effects of canal construction on the surface-water and ground-water resources in the watershed. The topographic map was prepared at a scale of 1:48,000 using aerial photography and ground-control points. (USGS)

Florida↗

USGS2004

Topographic Map of the Northwest Ascraeus Mons Region of Mars - MTM 500k 15/252E OMKT

This map is part of a series of topographic maps of areas of special scientific interest on Mars. The topography was compiled photogrammetically using Viking Orbiter stereo image pairs. The contour interval is 250 meters. Horizontal and vertical control was established using the USGS Mars Digital Image Model 2.0 (MDIM 2.0) and data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA).

IMAP↗

USGS2004

Topographic Map of the Northeast Ascraeus Mons Region of Mars - MTM 500k 15/257E OMKT

This map is part of a series of topographic maps of areas of special scientific interest on Mars. The topography was compiled photogrammetically using Viking Orbiter stereo image pairs. The contour interval is 250 meters. Horizontal and vertical control was established using the USGS Mars Digital Image Model 2.0 (MDIM 2.0) and data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA).

IMAP↗

USGS2004

Topographic Map of the Southeast Ascraeus Mons Region of Mars - MTM 500k 10/257E OMKT

This map is part of a series of topographic maps of areas of special scientific interest on Mars. The topography was compiled photogrammetically using Viking Orbiter stereo image pairs. The contour interval is 250 meters. Horizontal and vertical control was established using the USGS Mars Digital Image Model 2.0 (MDIM 2.0) and data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA).

IMAP↗

USGS2004

Topographic Map of the Southwest Ascraeus Mons Region of Mars - MTM 500k 10/252E OMKT

This map is part of a series of topographic maps of areas of special scientific interest on Mars. The topography was compiled photogrammetically using Viking Orbiter stereo image pairs. The contour interval is 250 meters. Horizontal and vertical control was established using the USGS Mars Digital Image Model 2.0 (MDIM 2.0) and data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA).

IMAP↗

USGS2005

Topographic map of part of the Kasei Valles and Sacra Fossae regions of Mars - MTM 500k 20/287E OMKT

This map is part of a series of topographic maps of areas of special scientific interest on Mars. The topography was compiled photogrammetrically using Viking Orbiter stereo image pairs and photoclinometry from a Viking Orbiter image. The contour interval is 250 m. Horizontal and vertical control was established using the USGS Mars Digital Image Model 2.0 (MDIM 2.0) and data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA).

Scientific Investigations Map↗