THE READABILITY OF THE MAP: THEORETICAL PRINCIPLES

An effort is made at developing a theory of map readability, defined as the process of the user's representation of the information of the map in his/her own mind. This can be estimated quantitatively by surrogate measures, which include the speed of map comprehension and accuracy of map interpretation. Levels of psychological representation of map information are incorporated to determine at what stage particular aspects of map knowledge are understood. Thus what readability entails, and the approaches used to measure it (what types of things are comprehended, how fast, and how accurately) will depend upon the level of representation. Translated from: Vestnik Leningradskogo Universiteta, seriya 7 [geologiya, geografiya], 1988, No. 1, pp. 32-37.     

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION MAPS: PROBLEMS IN COMPILATION AND READABILITY

The successes and shortcomings of environmental protection maps published in the USSR are reviewed. Emphasis is on the problems of defining map content and the techniques which can be employed to enhance the readability of the maps. Speed and accuracy of map reading are evaluated and a compromise is sought between these two contradictory requirements. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22038 from: Izvestiya Vsesoyuznogo Geograficheskogo Obshchestva, 1988, No. 5, pp. 453-459.     

IMPROVING MAPS OF POPULATION DISTRIBUTION

Ways of improving systems of symbols employed in population mapping are examined. Methods are investigated for adequately portraying population sizes with graduated geometric symbols in such cases where the number of size classes is too large for conventionally accepted size intervals between classes to be maintained. Among the approaches recommended are combining symbol size and color, and a table outlining different variants is included. The results of experiments performed for determining the readability of various symbolization schemes are summarized. Translated by Kurt E. Englemann, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1989, No. 5, pp. 48–51.     

DESIGN OF CARTOGRAPHIC LETTERING FOR COMPUTER MAPPING

Guidelines for the design of lettering in computer mapping are outlined, which include, but are not restricted to: retention of basic elements of existing lettering styles, provision of high perceptibility and simplicity of design, retention of high readability and informational properties, consistency in the assignment of particular styles to particular classes of features, and observance of letter-spacing rules established in cartographic practice. A “machine-oriented formalized cartographic language,” suitable for both machine and visual reading, analysis, and construction of map elements is proposed as the basis for the development of a system of lettering in automated cartography. Translated from: Izvestiya vuzov. Geodeziya i aerofotos'-yemka, 1986, No. 1, pp. 92-97.     

A LANDSCAPE-GEOCHEMICAL WORLD MAP AS A BASIS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL-GEOCHEMICAL MAPPING AND FORECASTING

The author outlines a procedure for the compilation of a global-scale map of landscapes as defined by their associated geochemical conditions. Major methodological issues are addressed, such as the selection of the appropriate taxonomic units (size of geochemical regions) for mapping, identification of specific geochemical criteria for regional differentiation, and use of color and pattern in map generation to ensure maximum discrimination and readability. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Geografiya i prirodnyye resursy, 1993, No. 1, pp. 5-10.     

A MAP OF THE AVERAGED RELIEF OF THE RUSSIAN PLAIN

The authors outline a methodology for the small-scale hypsometric mapping of plains areas based on the averaging of relief—this for the purpose of portraying the most important details of local relief (small erosional landforms) without obscuring larger, major relief forms or compromising the readability of the map. An example map (25-m contour interval) of the Soviet portion of the East European Plain at a scale of 1:5,000,000 is included. The elevations portrayed on this map were averaged, according to a multi-stage procedure, from grid cells on a 1:2,500,000 map before transference onto the smaller-scale map base. The new map makes possible a revised estimate of the average elevation of the Russian Plain and depicts well the effects of both endogenous and exogenous factors on relief formation. Translated from: Geomorfologiya, 1987, No. 1, pp. 22-29.     

THE ACCURACY OF VISUAL DETERMINATIONS OF STATISTICAL CHARACTERISTICS FROM MAPS

The authors address a range of issues connected with the visual representation and interpretation of statistical data on maps. Attention is focused on common behaviors of map users in determinations of various characteristics of map symbols. Results are reported from experiments testing the relationship between the accuracy of obtaining quantitative information on a map with the total number of symbols and number of scale levels [size classes] employed, the use (or non-use) of color in the symbolization scheme, etc. Translated by Larry Richardson, Los Angeles, CA 90039 from: Izvestiya Vsesoyuznogo Geograficheskogo Obshchestva, 1989, No. 4, pp. 345–351.     

ON THE ESSENCE OF THE LANGUAGE OF THE MAP

The author continues development of his concept of cartography as the “language of the map,” an earlier paper of this subject appearing in translation in M.S.R.S., 1985, No. 1. Although the term language has been widely used to describe cartographic communication, current theory fails to incorporate aspects of the language which provide for a comprehensive understanding of its structure and function. In particular, the language of the map and its symbolic elements cannot be explained reflexively by methods and rules of symbol and map design, since these elements were developed not before but after the existence of the language. The language of the map thus is proposed as the mechanism which provides for replicability or duplication in the way a system of mapmaking-map use functions (under diverse conditions, purposes, historical periods, and levels of training of users) through its different methods, models, and norms. Translated from: Geografiya i prirodnyye resursy, 1985, No. 3, pp. 142-151.     

NEW METHODS OF COMPILING GENERAL REFERENCE MAPS IN ATLAS CARTOGRAPHY

Measures to improve the effectiveness and informational content of general reference maps and other materials in atlases designed for the general public are outlined. Emphasis is placed upon (a) enhancing the readability and visual appeal of color “landscape” maps, providing a generalized, small-scale aerial view of the region(s) of interest–this through the application of principles of perception and colorimetry–and (b) developing larger-scale “reference” maps maximizing levels of graphic detail without jeopardizing ease of perception–this based on a careful study of general reference maps in atlases worldwide and broadly based testing of users with various levels of map reading skills. Translated from: Izvestiya vysshykh uchebnykh zavedeniy: Geodeziya i aerofotos'yemka, 1985, No. 6, pp. 111-115.     

USE OF REMOTE SENSING IN THE STUDY OF THE CHANGING SHORELINE OF SARYKAMYSH LAKE

The findings of a program monitoring the growth of an enormous man-made lake, created by the flooding of a low-lying area by irrigation water drainage, are described. Black-and-white space images for the period 1973-1985 are used to determine rates of shoreline displacement, map the growth in the lake's water area, and to determine probable areas of future flooding as a basis for prediction of future lake levels and shoreline positions. Translated from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1988, No. 7, pp. 44-46.     

THE POTENTIAL FOR VISUAL AND AUTOMATED INTERPRETATION OF FOREST VEGETATION WITH SCANNER IMAGERY

Feature classification maps derived from visual and automated methods of interpreting band-specific and composite imagery from the “Fragment” multispectral scanning system are compared in the study of vegetation and related features along the Gulf of Riga. The automated method, featuring a two-stage unsupervised/supervised classification algorithm developed at Moscow University (see MSRS, 1984, No. 3, pp. 255-261) provided for enhanced discrimination of wetland areas, farm land, and settlements, as well as for the elimination of extraneous components (especially the above) visually classified as deciduous forest. Translated from: Vestnilk Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1988, No. 3, pp. 49-57 by Jay K. Mitchell, PlanEcon, Inc., Washington, DC 20005.     

SATELLITE MEASUREMENTS OF LAND PARAMETERS AS PART OF AN INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM OF CLIMATE RESEARCH

The role of remote sensing in one aspect of the World Climate Research Program is summarized. More specifically, unresolved theoretical and methodological problems are outlined for the use of remote sensing imagery (in conjunction with the International Land Surface Climatology Project) to derive quantitative parameters of land (and ice) surface characteristics. These parameters are raw data for models of the overall circulation of the atmosphere, which can be used to generate maps of albedo, surface roughness, hydrology, etc. A list of preliminary standards for satellite monitoring of land surface characteristics is included. Translated from: Izvestiya Vsesoyuznogo Geograficheskogo Obshchestva, 1988, No. 2, pp. 161-165.     

EXPERIENCE IN COMPILING LARGE-SCALE MAPS OF EROSION-PRONE AREAS

Specific criteria used in the compilation of large-scale maps of erosion-prone areas are defined and evaluated for tracts of land representing a number of different agricultural cover types. Formulas are derived which facilitate the mapping of such areas based on such readily observable morphometric characteristics as slope length and steepness. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1988, No. 5, pp. 25-31.     

NATURAL ZONES OF THE USSR ON SPACE IMAGERY: A NEW INSTRUCTIONAL AID IN THE SECONDARY SCHOOLS

The development of a new instructional aid in geography in the USSR is described–an exhibit featuring wall-map sized space imagery of major natural regions. Each station in the exhibit (prepared jointly by the Moscow University Laboratory of Remote Sensing Methods and the Main Administration of Geodesy and Cartography) includes a color image of a site representing one of seven major natural zones, a series of thematic maps based on results of image interpretation, a map showing the location of the imaged area within the USSR, and a series of ground photographs of typical landscapes and land uses. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1988, No. 2, pp. 36-41 by Natalia B. Barbash, Brooklyn, NY 11209.     

USE OF SPACE IMAGERY IN COMPILING EVALUATIVE AND FORECAST MAPS OF LAND USE

Space information is used to assess present and forecast future socioeconomic characteristics related to land use in the Sheki-Zakataly region, Azerbaijan SSR. Land use maps were compiled to clarify present conditions, which then provided a basis for evaluating possibilities for improvement and intensification of land use and for predicting possible land use trends given certain assumptions. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Izvestiya Akademii Nauk, SSSR: seriya geograficheskaya, 1988, No. 4, pp. 89-96.     

EXTRAPOLATION IN TIME OF REFERENCE DATA ON THE CONDITION OF NATURAL FEATURES: THE EXAMPLE OF WINTER WHEAT

The author outlines a method for extrapolating reference spectral data describing the condition of certain crops obtained for a particular point in time to periods for which reliable remote sensing data are not available. Examination of the correspondence between crop “condition classes,” identified through visual interpretation of aerial imagery, and actual yields/biomass for a number of phases of crop development of winter wheat for several crop years provides basic information for a probability matrix of the condition of a crop at times B, C, and D based on previous conditions at times A, B, and C. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1988, No. 4, pp. 73-79.     

AN ANALYTIC TECHNIQUE OF MAP TRANSFORMATION

The authors propose a fully automated technique of map transformation using an iteration method to transform a map of disuniform density areas into a map of uniform density areas. The technique is illustrated with particular reference to maps of rural population density and total population density of Czechoslovakia. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, 1983, No. 2, pp. 56-63.     

NATIONAL ATLASES: CONCEPTS,CONTENT, AND EXPERIENCE IN DEVELOPMENT

This article summarizes the experience gained from collaboration between the Institute of Geography of the USSR Academy of Sciences and geographers and cartographers of Cuba, Mongolia, and Vietnam in the creation of national atlases for these countries. The scientific concepts embodied in the atlases are analyzed, as well as the interrelationships and scope of topics, the combination of scientific and practical directions, and characteristics of their organization. Translated from: Izvestiya Akademii Nauk SSSR, seriya geograficheskaya, 1988, No. 3, pp. 31-38 by Jay K. Mitchell, PlanEcon, Inc., Washington, DC 20005.     

AN INITIAL ATTEMPT AT INTERPRETING THE STRUCTURE OF MOUNTAINOUS AREAS IN THE WESTERN ANTARCTIC WITH SPACE IMAGERY

The second of two reports on the use of space imagery in the interpretation of Antarctica's geologic structure applies interpretation procedures described in an earlier article (see Mapping Sciences and Remote Sensing, 1985, No. 1) to produce a geologic map of a portion of the Antarctic Peninsula. Features identified on space imagery and depicted on the map include: a deep pericratonnal fault zone, a Mesozoic fold belt interrupted by a complex system of faults, and ring or annular structures of volcanic origin. Translated from: Antarktika, AN SSSR Mezhduve-domstvennaya komissiya po izucheniyu Antarktiki, Doklady komissii [USSR Academy of Sciences Joint Commission on Antarctic Research, Commission Report], No. 24. Moscow, 1985, pp. 43-49.     

USE OF SPACE PHOTOGRAPHS IN THE MAKING AND REVISION OF SMALL-SCALE MAPS

A brief review paper focuses on Soviet strategies for the use of space imagery, particularly photographic products (1:2,000,000 to 1:4,200,000 scale) from manned spaceflights, in the revision of small-scale general reference maps. Principles for the interpretation and mapping of basic map elements appearing on space photographs are outlined. Space photographs provide for reduction in time spent in map editing and the more correct analysis of the reliability of information and its generalization. A technology of map revision based on the joint use of original photographs and photomaps, with the transfer of revisions from photomaps to map originals, is proposed. Translated from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1986, No. 8, pp. 29-33.