AN ATLAS OF CMEA MEMBER NATIONS

General problems of complex atlas mapping—selection of scales and indices for mapping, standardization of legends, establishment of appropriate levels of generalization, etc.—are addressed using the first comprehensive economic atlas of CMEA member countries as an example. The Atlas itself contains general overview maps of economic linkages of CMEA member nationa with the world economy, maps devoted to economic transactions and patterns within the CMEA as a whole, and general economic maps of the individual member nations. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1985, No. 4, pp. 3-6.     

SOUTH AND EAST AFRICA AND THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF GEODESY AND GEOPHYSICS

Abstract

THE resolutions and pious hopes (væux) passed by the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics at Edinburgh in September 1936 have just been circulated in a formidable document of 8 pages and XXIX commandments. Of these, two affect the Cape-to-Cairo line particularly and they seem to deserve special study. The first of these, Number III—on systems of Projections—applies the meridional strips of the Transverse Mercator Projection apparently to all maps, topographical as well as cadastral.     

SURVEY OF PALESTINE: THE FIRST TWENTY YEARS

Abstract

I suppose most of you look at a map nearly every day and I expect you know a good deal more about them after following the blitzkriege of armies in Europe—and Africa. My advice is, go on learning, for a map has become the means of picturing allsorts of things closely connected with our lives ; modern methods of reproduction have made maps so picturesque and useful that they should be companions to all those who take the trouble to understand them.     

PHOTOGRAMMETRIC PRINCIPLES FOR THE COMBINATION OF REMOTE SENSING AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL MAPPING

A review of Soviet research describes methods of combining remote sensing and geodetic data in cartometric data bases—for the purposes of compiling more detailed and accurate “three-dimensional” terrain maps. The major objective is to provide, by means of photogrammetric techniques employing stereopairs or series of overlapping images, elevational data on selective key geomorphological points (along structure lines, summits of ridges, valley bottoms, etc.) which can be used to supplement (or replace) data obtained for the control points of a rectangular grid. Creation of digital models from these “geomorphological” points provides more accurate three-dimensional terrain maps. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1986, No. 6, pp. 56-64.     

RECIDIVISM OF COMMUNICATIVE CARTOGRAPHY UNDER THE GUISE OF AUTOMATION

The author, in a review of Ye. Ye. Shiryayev's book, Cartographic Presentation, Transformation, and Analysis of Geoinformation, addresses several issues in the automation of cartography—in particular what he perceives as a growing tendency to underestimate the importance of understanding the information being portrayed on maps. A formalistic (strictly quantitative) view of generalization that focuses on preservation or minimization of the loss of information on an initial map ignores the potential for the creation of new knowledge through the abstraction and elimination of information about lower-order systems. Salishchev criticizes Shiryayev's method of “raster digitizing” on such formalistic grounds, and because of its lack of visual quality and purported indiscriminate application within cartography. Shiryayev's reply to Salishchev's comments appears in the following paper of this issue. Translated from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1985, No. 11, pp. 59–61.     

THE RE-TRIANGULATION OF GREAT BRITAIN-II

Abstract

Reconnaissance.—It has been possible to draw up a “paper scheme” for most of the primary triangulation by examination of large-scale topographic maps for possible obstructions to the proposed rays (after due allowance for curvature and refraction along the ray); the fact that certain of the proposed lines had been definitely observed in the existing primary or secondary triangulation was of course of material assistance. Since, however, all observations were to be to luminous beacons, requiring a close organization, it would have been unsound to draw up an observing programme on the strength of this paper scheme alone. The omission of a few key rays, subsequently found to be obstructed by timber, whose height cannot be appreciated from maps, or by local features which had grown up since the last triangulation, would have entailed some confusion in the observing programme, the establishment of additional stations for occupation during a later season, and the reoccupation of stations surrounding such additional points; in short, the probability of a year's delay in obtaining sufficient material for adjustment, and a considerable loss of economy. Arrangements were accordingly made for the paper scheme of the English main chain to be verified and amended on the ground by special reconnaissance parties in 1935, when in fact no instruments or beacons were available to commence observing in any case. In the same way, field reconnaissance of the Scottish main chain and of the Western figure (Wales and the S.W. peninsula) was completed in 1936 and a start made on the Eastern figure (East Anglia and S.E. England), so as to get the reconnaissance and station preparation well ahead of observing. Experimental reconnnaissance of a few secondary blocks—for which, as also for the primary reconnaissance of the flat enclosed East Anglian country, paper schemes are practically useless—was also commenced in 1936 and is being pushed ahead rapidly in 1937.     

USE OF SPACE IMAGERY IN THE FOREST ECONOMY

This paper provides a broad overview of current Soviet applications of remote sensing in the performance of forest inventories and related valuational studies, and in the production of derivative thematic maps—in particular, the photostatistical method of forest inventory based on interactive computer-assisted interpretation of satellite imagery and large-scale air photos. The ultimate future objective is the formation of a unified remote sensing-geographic information system for forest management and inventory purposes that will encompass the entire forested area of the country. Advances in the use of satellite imagery in the monitoring of forest fires, insect infestations, and rangeland deterioration have also been made since the late 1970s. Translated from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1986, No. 4, pp. 30–36.     

REMOTE SENSING AND THE STUDY OF SIBERIAN MINERAL RESOURCES

The authors outline the general policy governing the use of remote sensing in Siberian mineral exploration—as a tool in the structural-geomorphologic mapping of potential mineral-bearing locations. Such maps are used to infer geologic structure (and endogenous conditions for mineral formation) and the character of contemporary exogenous processes (and conditions of transport and concentration of mineral residues) from geoindicators in surface terrain visible from space. Uses of space imagery in the study of seismic activity and engineering geomorphology are also described. Translated from: Kompleksnyye aerokosmicheskiye Issledovaniya Sibiri, A. L. Yanshin and L. K. Zyat'kova, eds. Novosibirsk: Nauka, 1984, pp. 5-14.     

THE HISTORICAL GEOGRAPHY OF LANDSCAPES IN WESTERN IRAQ FROM SPACE IMAGERY

Space photography at 1:2,400,000 scale from the “Salyut-6” space station was used to compile maps on the evolution of arid landscapes in the Late Pleistocene and Holocene in western Iraq. The imagery made it possible to trace the development of many ancient natural features and to formulate an interpretation key of landscape elements—formed under a variety of past climatic environments, but subsequently evolving under common, somewhat similar natural conditions. This provides a basis for improved understanding the present state, history of formation, and future transformations of arid landscapes. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Izvestiya Vsesoyuznogo Geograficheskogo Obshchestva, 1990, No. 3, pp. 255–260.     

THE USE OF ANCIENT MAPS AND SPACE IMAGERY IN THE STUDY OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE

The author outlines, in diagrammatic form, a procedure for the joint use of old maps (topographic, land survey, etc.) and current space imagery to compile maps of environmental change. The ancient maps reveal land use and physical conditions which serve as a benchmark for evaluation of subsequent change. Space imagery is useful both in updating the current state of the environment and providing a cartographic base for the preparation of final maps. Selected areas of Moscow Oblast are used as test sites. Translated from: Izvestiya vuzov, Geodeziya i aerofotos' yem-ka, 1985, No. 1, pp. 104-109.     

COMPUTATION AND MAPPING OF THE ELEMENTS OF THE WATER-ICE BUDGET OF GLACIERS

Two general approaches for compiling maps of components of the water-ice budget in regions of glacier nourishment are compared and the resulting maps are analyzed. The compilation of raw data is based on field measurements rather than remote sensing information. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Materialy glyatsiologicheskikh issledovaniy, 1991, No. 72, pp. 94-102.     

PROBABILITY ANALYSIS OF THE COMPLETENESS OF GEOGRAPHIC MAPS

The author outlines a method for quantitative analysis of the completeness of information presented on maps of varying scale, i.e., for determining, upon reductions in scale of an original map A, what magnitudes of loss in graphic detail will result in derivative maps B, C, D that are of equal relative completeness to the original. Empirical formulae are derived which describe intensities of selection typical of maps devoted to particular topics (stream networks, urban socioeconomic indices, etc.) and graphic methods are described which can be used to determine scale denominators at which specific reductions in the number of features can occur without losses in “completeness” or, conversely, the number of particular kinds of features that can be eliminated on maps (or portions of maps) upon reductions in scale without losses in completeness. Translated from: Vestnik Moskovskogo Universiteta, geografiya, 1985, No. 5, pp. 17–23.     

EXPERIENCE IN MULTICOLOR THEMATIC MAPPING BY COMPUTER

The structure and operation of an automated hardware-software complex, in use in the Far East Division of the USSR Academy of Sciences (Vladivostok) to generate multicolor thematic maps for planning purposes, is described. Particularly noteworthy are adjustments, in the form of special interfaces, necessitated by the incompatibility of standard Soviet mainframe computers with the kinds of input-output devices commonly used in the West—notably the color display and graphics systems used to produce the final maps. Both preexisting maps and remote sensing imagery served, after digitization, as source materials. Translated from: Geografiya i prirodnyye resursy, 1986, No. 3, pp. 122-125.     

A CARTOGRAPHIC SIMULATION MODEL OF THE EFFECTS OF ECONOMIC ACTIVITY ON THE ENVIRONMENT

The principles of systems mapping are employed in a model simulating the effects of human activity on the environment. The model takes the form of series of maps which are organized within three basic units or “blocks.” Block I contains general preliminary maps of land use and environmental change within an area which can serve as a basis for subsequent forecasting and proposals for improving land use. Block II contains maps that take stock of, evaluate, and predict human impacts on specific environmental components, and show the spatial distribution of measures proposed to ameliorate these impacts. Block III consists of maps synthesizing the component-related information of the preceding block for the purpose of providing summary assessments about the condition of the environment and land use conflicts in an area and targeting areas deserving the most comprehensive reclamation efforts. Methods of compiling the various maps are described in detail. Translated from: Izvestiya AN SSSR, seriya geograficheskaya, 1986, No. 2, pp. 114–127.     

SOME ASPECTS OF TOPOGRAPHIC MAPPING OF THE SHELF

Shortcomings in the representation of bottom relief features on topographic maps of the continental shelves are examined, with particular attention given to submarine ridges and related features, the symbolization of which on such maps has been entirely ineffective. Specific recommendations are given on the form and color of symbols which can be used in upgrading the graphic impact of maps depicting such relief forms. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, VA 22308 from: Geodeziya i kartografiya, 1989, No. 1, pp. 35–40.     

APPLICATION OF THE CARTOGRAPHIC METHOD IN THE STUDY OF NATURE-SOCIETY INTERACTION IN THE MOLDAVIAN SSR

A Russian geographer describes a methodology whereby data on slopes contained within a geographic information system are employed in the compilation of geomorphological maps. More specifically, the author proposes and tests a technology for the automated compilation of electronic maps of mean slope for the territory of Altay Kray, West Siberia, Russia. Translated by Edward Torrey, Alexandria, Virginia from: Geografiya i prirodnyye resursy, 2002, No. 2, pp. 142-146.     

THE WORLD ATLAS OF SNOW AND ICE RESOURCES

The World Atlas of Snow and Ice Resources, scheduled for publication in the late 1980s, is an extensive cartographic summary of current knowledge about snow and ice. Roughly 750 maps organized under 17 broad themes cover topics such as glacier morphology, temperature and precipitation conditions in glacier formation, avalanches, meltwater runoff, sea ice, and past glaciation. The organization of the project is described along with the contents of major thematic sections, and examples of the use of basic initial maps to validate information used in more complex derivative maps are provided. Translated from: Materialy glyatsiologicheskikh issledovaniy, USSR Geophysical Committee Publication No. 51. Moscow: Mezhvedomstvenniy geofizicheskiy komitet, 1984, pp. 89-95.     

AN EXPERIMENT IN THE COMPILATION AND USE OF A COMPLEX ENGINEERING-GLACIOLOGICAL MAP

A method for the compilation of 1:3,000,000-scale maps of natural nival-glacial phenomena is proposed for an area of the High Pamir Range in Soviet Central Asia. Such maps depict the distribution, frequency and intensity/magnitude, and potential impacts of such natural hazards as avalanches, mudslides, “dirty snow” avalanches (combined avalanches-mudslides in late spring), icings (naledy), and glacier pulsations, and are used in the planning of construction and the maintenance of roads and other transportation corridors during winter and spring. Hypothetical examples of the use of the maps are provided. Translated from: Materialy glyatsiologicheskikh issledovanly, USSR Geophysical Committee Publication No. 55. Moscow: Mezhduvedomstvenniy geofizicheskiy komitet, 1986, pp. 213–219.     

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.     

A FIFTY-YEARS RETROSPECT

Abstract

The Ordnance Survey and the War.—I shall not inflict upon the readers of this Review any very long account of the work of the Ordnance Survey during the Great War. At that time the work of the Survey suffered from one necessary disadvantage: all the young men on its establishment, whether in the R.E. Companies or on the Civil Staff, left for active service. As a slight compensation for this inevitable dislocation all money difficulties in the preparation of maps for war disappeared.