The Earth is Round and Maps are Flat: Working with Spatial Reference Systems in GIS

Catalog description

The course explores three important topics related to georeferenced data: Datums, map projections, and grid systems. Accurate coordinates are the key to successful manipulation in a geographic information system (GIS). The course begins with a detailed look at datums and the role they play in mathematically describing the Earth's shape and size, defining exact Earth coordinates, and establishing the height of a point above mean sea level. Map projections are examined next. These formula-based entities are implemented as algorithms in GIS, remote sensing, and other kinds of mapping and spatial analysis software that systematically take Earth's coordinates and convert them to a planar environment. Grid systems conclude this course with a discussion of their utility when carrying out accurate measurement activities on maps. Collectively, this course provides the theoretical underpinnings and applied knowledge necessary to understand and effectively work with the wide range of available datums, map projections, and coordinate systems that are available today.