Mar 28, 2012
— read in fullGeomatics explained
You’ve probably seen geomatics in action, and you’ve almost certainly used it. So what is geomatics?
Geomatics is all about gathering geographic information, especially the shape of the land. That means you’re using geomatics every time you look at a map or use a GPS device.
One part of geomatics you’ve probably seen happening is surveying (see photo). Surveyors use various instruments to work out accurate distances, altitudes and gradients. This is important for map-making, planning and working out who owns land.
Geomatics has changed a lot as technology has improved. Devices like laser rangefinders, which measure distance using a laser beam, have made gathering information quicker and more precise. It is also easier for amateurs to try things like mapmaking: the OpenStreetMap project uses records from GPS devices to make free maps, so you can contribute using a satnav or smartphone!
Geomaticists work in lots of different industries, such as engineering, government, mapping and exploration for sources of natural resources. But it can be serious business: an error in a Google map in November 2010 reportedly led to Nicaragua invading Costa Rica, as the US Department of State had supplied inaccurate information about where the border was.
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