## Breadcrumb

-  Science 
-  Science Explorer 
-  Maps and Mapping 

# Methods for Map Making

## Early days of map making

## Field mapping through dense vegetation

## Modern field mapping and data technology

## Mapping from the sky

## Mapping from space

The USGS uses every tool available to make accurate and up-to-date maps. This includes boats and binoculars, as well as airplanes, satellites, and lasers!

                  -              Overview           
                  -              Publications           
                  -              Science           
                  -              Data and More           
                  -              Multimedia           
                  -              News           

Mapping has come a long way from the early days of using pencil, paper, and barometers to produce topographic quadrangles! Modern mapping methods use satellites and airborne sensors to acquire data connected to geographic information, forming digital data layers that comprise geospatial information and map products. Mapping products characterize the surface and subsurface, and cover not just land, but also parts of the seafloor. Information is now primarily delivered in digital format (although printouts are available on demand) and available for public use.

History of USGS Topographic Work

## History of USGS Topographic Work

History of USGS Geologic Mapping

## History of USGS Geologic Mapping

Seafloor Mapping

## Seafloor Mapping

Planetary Mapping

## Planetary Mapping

## Innovation in Map Product Delivery

USGS is developing new tools and options to help the public access and make use of maps and map data, including topoBuilder, where custom topographic maps are created on demand, and US Topo, where USGS-style topographic maps can be created on demand, where data layers can be turned on and off. USGS is also working on future map delivery methods, such as the U.S. GeoFramework Initiative, an effort to create an integrated, three-dimensional, digital geologic map of the US., with a goal to enable on-demand construction of 2D and 3D geologic maps by 2030. Earth Monitoring, Analyses, and Prediction (EarthMAP) is a framework for how USGS will integrate science, data, current technologies, and the delivery of products in the form of integrated observations and predictions of the current and future state of Earth systems at the scales and timeframes needed to inform decisions.

topoBuilder

## topoBuilder

U.S. Geoframework Initiative

## U.S. Geoframework Initiative

EarthMAP

## EarthMAP

Landsat Missions

## Landsat Missions

View Media Details

## USGS Geospatial and Mapping Applications

USGS also produces or contributes to other databases and web applications for viewing geospatial and remotely sensed data. Examples are the
                                      - National Land Cover Database : definitive land cover database for the US in cooperation with the Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics Consortium (MRLC)
                                      - Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET) : a training program built around the recognition that the Earth is a fundamental training ground for human and robotic planetary exploration
                                      - Landfire : a complete nationally consistent collection of geospatial layers to support land and wildland fire support
                                      - Global Visualuation Viewer (GloVIS) : a tool for accessing publicly available remote sensing data
                                      - Land Change Monitoring, Assessment, and Projection (LCMAP) : a new generation of land cover mapping and change monitoring
                                      - 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) LidarExplorer : USGS managed program respond to growing needs for high-quality topographic data and for a wide range of other three-dimensional (3D) representations of the Nation's natural and constructed features

National Land Cover Database

## National Land Cover Database

LANDFIRE (LF)

## LANDFIRE (LF)

Terrestrial Analogs (TARGET)

## Terrestrial Analogs (TARGET)

Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis)

## Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis)

Land Change Monitoring, Assessment, and Projection (LCMAP)

## Land Change Monitoring, Assessment, and Projection (LCMAP)

3DEP LidarExplorer

## 3DEP LidarExplorer

## USGS Role in Mapping Standards

USGS works with other Federal agencies to ensure mapping, geospatial, and other data products meet standards, delivering map products in a consistent format for use by stakeholders and the public.

U.S. Board on Geographic Names

## U.S. Board on Geographic Names

Center of Excellence for Geospatial Information (CEGIS)

## Center of Excellence for Geospatial Information (CEGIS)

National Geospatial Program Standards

## National Geospatial Program Standards

Geoscience Standards

## Geoscience Standards

## Publications

December 12, 2022

####                 The Seamless Integrated Geologic Mapping (SIGMa) extension to the Geologic Map Schema (GeMS)              

Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

September 2, 2020

####                 GeMS (Geologic Map Schema)—A standard format for the digital publication of geologic maps              

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

View All

## Science

link

February 21, 2024

####                 GloVis Help Index              

Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center 

link

February 21, 2024

####   GloVis Help Index

Learn More

link

April 27, 2022

####                 The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative              

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

link

April 27, 2022

####   The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative

Learn More

link

February 28, 2022

####                 Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​              

Core Science Systems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic Mapping

link

February 28, 2022

####   Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​

Learn More

link

June 9, 2021

####                 GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial              

Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center 

link

June 9, 2021

####   GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial

Learn More

link

October 1, 2019

####                 Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)              

Mineral Resources Program

link

October 1, 2019

####   Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

Learn More

View All

## Multimedia

PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

May 26, 2022

#### PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

link

Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center

Public Lecture Series

May 26, 2022

#### PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

link

#### PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

link

Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center

Public Lecture Series

Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

March 14, 2022

#### Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

link

                                                  - Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
                                                  - Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.

Astrogeology Science Center

March 14, 2022

#### Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

link

#### Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

link

                                                  - Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
                                                  - Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.

Astrogeology Science Center

View All

## News

'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat Legacy

January 24, 2023

####   'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat Legacy

OnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map Offerings

January 23, 2023

####   OnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map Offerings

Everything Old is New Again

June 15, 2022

####   Everything Old is New Again

View All

December 12, 2022

####                 The Seamless Integrated Geologic Mapping (SIGMa) extension to the Geologic Map Schema (GeMS)              

Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

September 2, 2020

####                 GeMS (Geologic Map Schema)—A standard format for the digital publication of geologic maps              

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

link

February 21, 2024

####                 GloVis Help Index              

Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center 

link

February 21, 2024

####   GloVis Help Index

Learn More

link

April 27, 2022

####                 The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative              

National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program

link

April 27, 2022

####   The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative

Learn More

link

February 28, 2022

####                 Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​              

Core Science Systems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic Mapping

link

February 28, 2022

####   Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​

Learn More

link

June 9, 2021

####                 GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial              

Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center 

link

June 9, 2021

####   GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial

Learn More

link

October 1, 2019

####                 Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)              

Mineral Resources Program

link

October 1, 2019

####   Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

Learn More

link

September 11, 2018

####                 National Land Cover Database              

Ecosystems Mission Area, Land Change Science Program, Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center 

link

September 11, 2018

####   National Land Cover Database

Learn More

link

September 10, 2018

####                 LANDFIRE-Landscape Fire and Resource Management Planning Tools              

Core Science Systems Mission Area, Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center , Wildland Fire Science

link

September 10, 2018

####   LANDFIRE-Landscape Fire and Resource Management Planning Tools

Learn More

November 4, 2022

####                 Geographic Names Information System (GNIS)              

The U.S. Geological Survey's National Geospatial Program developed the GNIS in support of the U.S. Board on Geographic Names as the official repository of domestic geographic names data, the official vehicle for geographic names use by all departments of the Federal Government, and the source for applying geographic names to Federal electronic and printed products.

National Geospatial Program, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic Names

November 3, 2022

####                 Download Data & Maps from The National Map              

The National Map Downloader is the primary search and download application for USGS topographic maps and base-layer GIS data.

Core Science Systems Mission Area, National Geospatial Program, 3D Elevation Program, National Hydrography, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic Names

November 3, 2022

####                 The National Map Viewer              

Use The National Map Viewer to explore GIS data, see availability of USGS topographic maps, and create your own web map.

Core Science Systems Mission Area, National Geospatial Program, 3D Elevation Program, National Hydrography, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic Names

February 22, 2022

####                 topoBuilder - Custom Topographic Maps On Demand              

topoBuilder is a public web application released by the National Geospatial Program that enables users to request customized USGS-style topographic maps, known as an OnDemand Topo, that utilize the best available data from The National Map.

National Geospatial Program, National Digital Trails, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic Names

April 26, 2016

####                 USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis)              

All Landsat 7 ETM+, Landsat 4/5 TM, Landsat 1-5 MSS, EO-1 ALI, EO-1 Hyperion, MRLC, and Tri-Decadal data sets available; LP DAAC ASTER and selected MODIS data holdings also available. Browse-based for enhanced visualization.

PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

May 26, 2022

#### PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

link

Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center

Public Lecture Series

May 26, 2022

#### PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

link

#### PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

link

Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center

Public Lecture Series

Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

March 14, 2022

#### Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

link

                                                  - Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
                                                  - Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.

Astrogeology Science Center

March 14, 2022

#### Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

link

#### Common Analogs in Northern Arizona

link

                                                  - Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
                                                  - Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.

Astrogeology Science Center

'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat Legacy

January 24, 2023

####   'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat Legacy

With a trio of smaller satellites that can each detect 26 wavelengths of light and thermal energy, the Landsat Next mission is expected to look very...

Read Article

OnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map Offerings

January 23, 2023

####   OnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map Offerings

The people have spoken! OnDemand Topo maps and topoBuilder were so popular that we're ending the pilot phase of the project and making topoBuilder a...

Read Article

Everything Old is New Again

June 15, 2022

####   Everything Old is New Again

“Everything old is new again” is a truism in fashion, but it can also be true in minerals science. Areas that were once mined for certain mineral...

Read Article

                  - Overview  
Mapping has come a long way from the early days of using pencil, paper, and barometers to produce topographic quadrangles! Modern mapping methods use satellites and airborne sensors to acquire data connected to geographic information, forming digital data layers that comprise geospatial information and map products. Mapping products characterize the surface and subsurface, and cover not just land, but also parts of the seafloor. Information is now primarily delivered in digital format (although printouts are available on demand) and available for public use.
History of USGS Topographic WorkHistory of USGS Topographic WorkHistory of USGS Geologic MappingHistory of USGS Geologic MappingSeafloor MappingSeafloor MappingPlanetary MappingPlanetary MappingInnovation in Map Product Delivery
USGS is developing new tools and options to help the public access and make use of maps and map data, including topoBuilder, where custom topographic maps are created on demand, and US Topo, where USGS-style topographic maps can be created on demand, where data layers can be turned on and off. USGS is also working on future map delivery methods, such as the U.S. GeoFramework Initiative, an effort to create an integrated, three-dimensional, digital geologic map of the US., with a goal to enable on-demand construction of 2D and 3D geologic maps by 2030. Earth Monitoring, Analyses, and Prediction (EarthMAP) is a framework for how USGS will integrate science, data, current technologies, and the delivery of products in the form of integrated observations and predictions of the current and future state of Earth systems at the scales and timeframes needed to inform decisions.
topoBuildertopoBuilderU.S. Geoframework InitiativeU.S. Geoframework InitiativeEarthMAPEarthMAPLandsat MissionsLandsat Missions        Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media DetailsLand cover animation of growth in the Palm Springs, CA area. USGS Geospatial and Mapping Applications
USGS also produces or contributes to other databases and web applications for viewing geospatial and remotely sensed data. Examples are the
- National Land Cover Database : definitive land cover database for the US in cooperation with the Multi-Resolution Land Characteristics Consortium (MRLC)
- Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET) : a training program built around the recognition that the Earth is a fundamental training ground for human and robotic planetary exploration
- Landfire : a complete nationally consistent collection of geospatial layers to support land and wildland fire support
- Global Visualuation Viewer (GloVIS) : a tool for accessing publicly available remote sensing data
- Land Change Monitoring, Assessment, and Projection (LCMAP) : a new generation of land cover mapping and change monitoring
- 3D Elevation Program (3DEP) LidarExplorer : USGS managed program respond to growing needs for high-quality topographic data and for a wide range of other three-dimensional (3D) representations of the Nation's natural and constructed features
National Land Cover DatabaseNational Land Cover DatabaseLANDFIRE (LF)LANDFIRE (LF)Terrestrial Analogs (TARGET)Terrestrial Analogs (TARGET)Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis)Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis)Land Change Monitoring, Assessment, and Projection (LCMAP)Land Change Monitoring, Assessment, and Projection (LCMAP)3DEP LidarExplorer3DEP LidarExplorerUSGS Role in Mapping Standards
USGS works with other Federal agencies to ensure mapping, geospatial, and other data products meet standards, delivering map products in a consistent format for use by stakeholders and the public.
U.S. Board on Geographic NamesU.S. Board on Geographic NamesCenter of Excellence for Geospatial Information (CEGIS)Center of Excellence for Geospatial Information (CEGIS)National Geospatial Program StandardsNational Geospatial Program StandardsGeoscience StandardsGeoscience StandardsPublicationsDecember 12, 2022                The Seamless Integrated Geologic Mapping (SIGMa) extension to the Geologic Map Schema (GeMS)              Geologic maps are the fundamental building blocks of surface and subsurface three-dimensional geologic framework models of the Earth’s crust. However, as the production and availability of geologic map databases continues to increase, inconsistent data models and the lack of synthesized, national geologic map data at scales appropriate for informed decision making negatively affect the functionalAuthorsKenzie J. Turner, Jeremiah B. Workman, Joseph Colgan, Amy K. Gilmer, Margaret E. Berry, Samuel Johnstone, Kathleen F. Warrell, Marieke Dechesne, D. Paco VanSistine, Ren A. Thompson, Adam M. Hudson, Kristine L. Zellman, Donald S. Sweetkind, Chester A. RulemanByGeosciences and Environmental Change Science CenterSeptember 2, 2020                GeMS (Geologic Map Schema)—A standard format for the digital publication of geologic maps              IntroductionThis report describes and defines GeMS (for Geologic Map Schema), a new standardized database schema—that is, a database design—for the digital publication of geologic maps. It originally was intended for geologic mapping funded by the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program of the U.S. Geological Survey, but its use can be extended to other programs and agencies as well. It is iAuthorsByNational Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science CenterView AllSciencelinkFebruary 21, 2024                GloVis Help Index                USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) provides an enhanced user interface using state-of-the-art technologies for searching, viewing, and downloading data. With easy-to- use navigation tools, users can instantly view and download scenes.ByEarth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center linkFebruary 21, 2024  GloVis Help Index  USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) provides an enhanced user interface using state-of-the-art technologies for searching, viewing, and downloading data. With easy-to- use navigation tools, users can instantly view and download scenes.Learn More**linkApril 27, 2022                The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative                The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative (USGI) is constructing a multi-resolution, seamless national 2D and 3D geologic maps and framework models by leveraging previous and existing geologic mapping efforts by both the USGS and State Geological Surveys to provide new regional- to National-scale geologic syntheses and support digital databases for 21st Century geologic mappers and many end users. By...ByNational Cooperative Geologic Mapping ProgramlinkApril 27, 2022  The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative  The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative (USGI) is constructing a multi-resolution, seamless national 2D and 3D geologic maps and framework models by leveraging previous and existing geologic mapping efforts by both the USGS and State Geological Surveys to provide new regional- to National-scale geologic syntheses and support digital databases for 21st Century geologic mappers and many end users. By...Learn More**linkFebruary 28, 2022                Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​                The U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Astrogeology Science Center (ASC) recently established the Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET) program. This service-oriented program is built around the recognition that the Earth is a fundamental training ground for human and robotic planetary exploration, and that ASC is in a unique position in northern Arizona with...ByCore Science Systems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic MappinglinkFebruary 28, 2022  Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​  The U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Astrogeology Science Center (ASC) recently established the Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET) program. This service-oriented program is built around the recognition that the Earth is a fundamental training ground for human and robotic planetary exploration, and that ASC is in a unique position in northern Arizona with...Learn More**linkJune 9, 2021                GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial                Since 2001, the USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) has been used to easily view, order, and download remotely sensed data. The GloVis Tour covers the basic steps for navigating through the website. The Short and Simple Help Document supplements the tour and highlights key features for setting up a search and accessing data. The full Help Document is under development and will provide an...ByEarth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center linkJune 9, 2021  GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial  Since 2001, the USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) has been used to easily view, order, and download remotely sensed data. The GloVis Tour covers the basic steps for navigating through the website. The Short and Simple Help Document supplements the tour and highlights key features for setting up a search and accessing data. The full Help Document is under development and will provide an...Learn More**linkOctober 1, 2019                Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)                The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.ByMineral Resources ProgramlinkOctober 1, 2019  Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)  The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.Learn More**View AllMultimediaListGridPubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent**PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well SpentMay 26, 2022PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spentlink  PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent
Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center
ByPublic Lecture SeriesMay 26, 2022PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well SpentlinkPubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spentlink
Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center
ByPublic Lecture SeriesCommon Analogs in Northern ArizonaCommon Analogs in Northern ArizonaMarch 14, 2022Common Analogs in Northern Arizonalink  Common Analogs in Northern Arizona- Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
- Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.
ByAstrogeology Science CenterMarch 14, 2022Common Analogs in Northern ArizonalinkCommon Analogs in Northern Arizonalink- Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
- Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.
ByAstrogeology Science CenterView AllNews'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat LegacyJanuary 24, 2023  'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat LegacyOnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map OfferingsJanuary 23, 2023  OnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map OfferingsEverything Old is New AgainJune 15, 2022  Everything Old is New AgainView All 
                  - Publications  LabelDecember 12, 2022                The Seamless Integrated Geologic Mapping (SIGMa) extension to the Geologic Map Schema (GeMS)              Geologic maps are the fundamental building blocks of surface and subsurface three-dimensional geologic framework models of the Earth’s crust. However, as the production and availability of geologic map databases continues to increase, inconsistent data models and the lack of synthesized, national geologic map data at scales appropriate for informed decision making negatively affect the functionalAuthorsKenzie J. Turner, Jeremiah B. Workman, Joseph Colgan, Amy K. Gilmer, Margaret E. Berry, Samuel Johnstone, Kathleen F. Warrell, Marieke Dechesne, D. Paco VanSistine, Ren A. Thompson, Adam M. Hudson, Kristine L. Zellman, Donald S. Sweetkind, Chester A. RulemanByGeosciences and Environmental Change Science CenterSeptember 2, 2020                GeMS (Geologic Map Schema)—A standard format for the digital publication of geologic maps              IntroductionThis report describes and defines GeMS (for Geologic Map Schema), a new standardized database schema—that is, a database design—for the digital publication of geologic maps. It originally was intended for geologic mapping funded by the National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program of the U.S. Geological Survey, but its use can be extended to other programs and agencies as well. It is iAuthorsByNational Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center 
                  - Science  LabellinkFebruary 21, 2024                GloVis Help Index                USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) provides an enhanced user interface using state-of-the-art technologies for searching, viewing, and downloading data. With easy-to- use navigation tools, users can instantly view and download scenes.ByEarth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center linkFebruary 21, 2024  GloVis Help Index  USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) provides an enhanced user interface using state-of-the-art technologies for searching, viewing, and downloading data. With easy-to- use navigation tools, users can instantly view and download scenes.Learn More**linkApril 27, 2022                The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative                The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative (USGI) is constructing a multi-resolution, seamless national 2D and 3D geologic maps and framework models by leveraging previous and existing geologic mapping efforts by both the USGS and State Geological Surveys to provide new regional- to National-scale geologic syntheses and support digital databases for 21st Century geologic mappers and many end users. By...ByNational Cooperative Geologic Mapping ProgramlinkApril 27, 2022  The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative  The U.S. GeoFramework Initiative (USGI) is constructing a multi-resolution, seamless national 2D and 3D geologic maps and framework models by leveraging previous and existing geologic mapping efforts by both the USGS and State Geological Surveys to provide new regional- to National-scale geologic syntheses and support digital databases for 21st Century geologic mappers and many end users. By...Learn More**linkFebruary 28, 2022                Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​                The U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Astrogeology Science Center (ASC) recently established the Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET) program. This service-oriented program is built around the recognition that the Earth is a fundamental training ground for human and robotic planetary exploration, and that ASC is in a unique position in northern Arizona with...ByCore Science Systems Mission Area, Natural Hazards Mission Area, Astrogeology Science Center, Planetary Geologic MappinglinkFebruary 28, 2022  Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET)​  The U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) Astrogeology Science Center (ASC) recently established the Terrestrial Analogs for Research and Geologic Exploration Training (TARGET) program. This service-oriented program is built around the recognition that the Earth is a fundamental training ground for human and robotic planetary exploration, and that ASC is in a unique position in northern Arizona with...Learn More**linkJune 9, 2021                GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial                Since 2001, the USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) has been used to easily view, order, and download remotely sensed data. The GloVis Tour covers the basic steps for navigating through the website. The Short and Simple Help Document supplements the tour and highlights key features for setting up a search and accessing data. The full Help Document is under development and will provide an...ByEarth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center linkJune 9, 2021  GloVis Short and Simple Tutorial  Since 2001, the USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis) has been used to easily view, order, and download remotely sensed data. The GloVis Tour covers the basic steps for navigating through the website. The Short and Simple Help Document supplements the tour and highlights key features for setting up a search and accessing data. The full Help Document is under development and will provide an...Learn More**linkOctober 1, 2019                Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)                The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.ByMineral Resources ProgramlinkOctober 1, 2019  Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)  The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.Learn More**linkSeptember 11, 2018                National Land Cover Database                EROS is central to the creation of the National Land Cover Database (NLCD), which is updated every two to three years and stands as the definitive land cover database for the United States.ByEcosystems Mission Area, Land Change Science Program, Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center linkSeptember 11, 2018  National Land Cover Database  EROS is central to the creation of the National Land Cover Database (NLCD), which is updated every two to three years and stands as the definitive land cover database for the United States.Learn More**linkSeptember 10, 2018                LANDFIRE-Landscape Fire and Resource Management Planning Tools                LANDFIRE (LF), a shared program between the wildland fire management programs of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (FS) and the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), represents the first and only complete nationally consistent collection of more than 25 geospatial layers (e.g. vegetation, fuel, disturbance, etc.), databases, and ecological models.ByCore Science Systems Mission Area, Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center , Wildland Fire SciencelinkSeptember 10, 2018  LANDFIRE-Landscape Fire and Resource Management Planning Tools  LANDFIRE (LF), a shared program between the wildland fire management programs of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service (FS) and the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), represents the first and only complete nationally consistent collection of more than 25 geospatial layers (e.g. vegetation, fuel, disturbance, etc.), databases, and ecological models.Learn More** 
                  - Data and More  LabelNovember 4, 2022                Geographic Names Information System (GNIS)              
The U.S. Geological Survey's National Geospatial Program developed the GNIS in support of the U.S. Board on Geographic Names as the official repository of domestic geographic names data, the official vehicle for geographic names use by all departments of the Federal Government, and the source for applying geographic names to Federal electronic and printed products.
ByNational Geospatial Program, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic NamesNovember 3, 2022                Download Data & Maps from The National Map              
The National Map Downloader is the primary search and download application for USGS topographic maps and base-layer GIS data.
ByCore Science Systems Mission Area, National Geospatial Program, 3D Elevation Program, National Hydrography, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic NamesNovember 3, 2022                The National Map Viewer              
Use The National Map Viewer to explore GIS data, see availability of USGS topographic maps, and create your own web map.
ByCore Science Systems Mission Area, National Geospatial Program, 3D Elevation Program, National Hydrography, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic NamesFebruary 22, 2022                topoBuilder - Custom Topographic Maps On Demand              
topoBuilder is a public web application released by the National Geospatial Program that enables users to request customized USGS-style topographic maps, known as an OnDemand Topo, that utilize the best available data from The National Map.
ByNational Geospatial Program, National Digital Trails, The National Map - Data Delivery, U.S. Board on Geographic NamesApril 26, 2016                USGS Global Visualization Viewer (GloVis)              
All Landsat 7 ETM+, Landsat 4/5 TM, Landsat 1-5 MSS, EO-1 ALI, EO-1 Hyperion, MRLC, and Tri-Decadal data sets available; LP DAAC ASTER and selected MODIS data holdings also available. Browse-based for enhanced visualization.
 
                  - Multimedia  LabelListGridPubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent**PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well SpentMay 26, 2022PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spentlink  PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent
Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center
ByPublic Lecture SeriesMay 26, 2022PubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well SpentlinkPubTalk-05/2022 - Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spentlink
Using Military Remote Sensing Technology to Support Federal Civil Agency Science: Sunk Cost, Well Spent

By Paul M. Young, Director of the USGS National Civil Applications Center
ByPublic Lecture SeriesCommon Analogs in Northern ArizonaCommon Analogs in Northern ArizonaMarch 14, 2022Common Analogs in Northern Arizonalink  Common Analogs in Northern Arizona- Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
- Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.
ByAstrogeology Science CenterMarch 14, 2022Common Analogs in Northern ArizonalinkCommon Analogs in Northern Arizonalink- Black Point Lava Flow  – An analog for basaltic volcanism overlying ancient sedimentary deposits.  Also used for science operations testing.
- Cinder Lake Crater Field  – Cinder field with craters that were generated to replicate part of Mare Tranquillitatis.  Used as an analog for traverse studies, navigation, and mobility.
ByAstrogeology Science Center 
                  - News  Label'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat LegacyJanuary 24, 2023  'Next' to Continue the NASA/USGS Landsat Legacy
With a trio of smaller satellites that can each detect 26 wavelengths of light and thermal energy, the Landsat Next mission is expected to look very...
Read Article**OnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map OfferingsJanuary 23, 2023  OnDemand Topo Maps Officially Join USGS National Map Offerings
The people have spoken! OnDemand Topo maps and topoBuilder were so popular that we're ending the pilot phase of the project and making topoBuilder a...
Read Article**Everything Old is New AgainJune 15, 2022  Everything Old is New Again
“Everything old is new again” is a truism in fashion, but it can also be true in minerals science. Areas that were once mined for certain mineral...
Read Article**