About Geospatial Technology

Geospatial technology is defined as an information technology that is used to interpret, analyze, display, develop, conduct, and use data on the geographic and spatial context. This technology is used in numerous ways including mapping and tracking, anti-terrorism, transportation technology, emergency response, geospatial information systems (GIS), global positioning systems (GPS), community advancement, crime mapping, and environmental management. Geospatial technology can be used to help our world in many ways, but to better understand this technology you must first know the rich history behind it.

History of Geospatial Technology

Geospatial technology has been around for ages. Long before the wonderful days of technology, ancient hunters from Lascaux, France, would draw pictures of the animals that they would hunt. Along with these pictures they would draw travel and migration routes of the animals. In 1803, the United States' experimentation with geospatial technologies began when Lewis and Clark set out to explore and map the Louisiana Territory. Later, during World War I, aerial photography was used to outfox the enemy by photographing the actual layout of battlefields.

As time went on, many new technologies were discovered. The first satellite navigational system was built by the U.S Navy and tested in the 1960s. In the 20th century, GPS units were created to navigate anywhere through the world, thanks to the use of satellites. Geospatial technology is now used in our lives to keep our country safe and keep us informed in the event of emergencies, There is even a “GIS day” that is used to teach more about this expanding technology.

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