ABSTRACT. Terrain analysis encompasses the systematic collection, analysis, and presentation of geographic data to evaluate their impact on crisis response operations. A pivotal element in this process is the accurate determination of terrain passability, a factor that significantly enhances the likelihood of operational success. In a preceding research project, the authors formulated a comprehensive methodology dedicated to defining terrain passability. This methodology is tailored for detailed terrain management, applicable to individual vehicles or groups of identical vehicles. The outcomes of this analytical approach manifest as passability maps, delineating impassable areas for specific vehicles. The methodology employs high-resolution elevation data and land cover data for calculations. The former identifies impassable areas for specific vehicles, while the latter excludes pre-defined impassable areas, such as buildings and lakes, from the analysis. This research undertakes a comparative study of various open-source datasets (elevation and land cover data) applicable to this methodology within selected regions in Poland. The comparison evaluates the information content of the databases and the resolution of elevation data. Consequently, passability maps for specific vehicles will be generated, illustrating the interdependencies among different input data configurations. Furthermore, by varying the resolution of elevation models, the research aims to identify the optimal configuration of this parameter, balancing the quality of results obtained and computational performance. This nuanced analysis contributes to refining the methodology's efficacy in diverse operational scenarios.

ABSTRACT. Recently, the tendency towards the concentration of the population and the socio-economic and cultural activities in the Bulgarian capital, Sofia, has been clearly expressed, which leads to an increase in seismic risk with possible long-term consequences. At the national level, assessing the seismic hazard for the Sofia region is the subject of numerous scientific studies using the two generally accepted deterministic and probabilistic approaches, while scientific publications on seismic risk assessment are limited. The present work considers some aspects of input data for the seismotectonic model, assumptions about seismic sources, and seismic activity modeling for the studied region, which are of particular importance in the preparation of hazard and risk maps for the highly developed metropolitan area exposed to a greater extent to earthquake damage. Several thematic maps published in the past two decades as the final product of the seismic hazard assessment for Sofia are included in the present analysis. The cartographic evaluation of these thematic maps was carried out in terms of designing a hazard map, depicted content, visualization methods, and layout to use and read the information about the capital territory. Comparisons are made with redesign seismic hazard maps of other countries, and the advantages and disadvantages of specific criteria followed in preparing the map products are analyzed. Publicly available national and European web-based GIS platforms are also discussed, providing access to up-to-date versions of seismic hazard and risk maps with different spatial resolutions for the capital territory.

ABSTRACT. At the present stage of public life, sustainable development and safety of tourism in Georgia is one of the most priority and promising areas of the country’s socio-economic progress. Racha-Lechkhumi and Zemo Imereti are currently considered in Georgia as a single tourist and recreational complex with great prospects. The effectiveness and relevance of this opinion is determined by the fact that the construction of a modern highway connecting Zemo Imereti and Racha-Lechkhumi has already been completed, which is the first communication connecting the municipalities of Sachkhere, Chiatura, Tkibuli, Ambrolauri, Oni and Tsageri.

These two regions are characterized by high diversity and potential in terms of tourism and recreation. In these regions there are such important resorts as: Shovi, Utsera, Lashichala, Kvereti etc.

According to our project, a unified geographic information system will be compiled for the mentioned promising tourist and recreational zones, which will be provided with accurate geographical, historical and cartographic and geoinformation materials.

The issue of tourism safety is an important component in the research and geoinformation mapping of the promising tourist and recreational complex of these regions. The database (geographic information system of security) presented in the work is a special search system in which information is combined into thematic blocks. It will allow the user to receive any information interesting from the point of view of security on a specific tourist object or route. The databases will also contain data on the object's touristic and recreational content.

ABSTRACT. Slovakia belongs to the countries with the most scattered ownership of European agricultural land. 12-15 owners often own the average parcel area of 0.45 ha. Land consolidation is generally performed to increase production and efficiency of farming as well as in sustainable rural development planning. However, the consolidation and new arrangement of land ownership also enable the arrangement of ownership of land that serves as public and shared facilities and measures (roads, field roads, anti-erosion, water retention, and ecological measures). This is essential for building eco-stabilization elements in agricultural land to improve biodiversity, especially in large-scale farmed land. The aim of this contribution is to evaluate the benefit of land improvements in terms of increasing the diversity of non-forest woody vegetation. Municipalities where more than 20 years have passed since the approval of land consolidation projects have been designated as study areas, as long enough time has passed for the changes to be visible in the landscape. The selected cadastral areas represented lowland agricultural land, submontane agricultural land, as well as urbanized land. Orthophotos from 2003 and 2020-21, High Resolution Layer (HRL) Small Woody Features (SWF) from the Copernicus program, and a ZBGIS database were used as input data. The results showed that land modifications did not significantly impact the increase of ecologically essential areas in agricultural land nor the accessibility of agricultural land. They were most important in the urbanized landscape, where most of the consolidated agricultural land was built up.

ABSTRACT. Cartography and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are commonly studied for the techniques that they use. The use of cartography and GIS in research, education and health has increased significantly due to the rapidly changing technological environment. The efficiency of public administration reflects the way in which countries are governed and responds to the needs of society. Public administration has a significant impact on the sustainability of economic growth and the cohesion of society. Therefore, in order to streamline and optimize the performance of public administration, data analytics is a critical tool for future decision making. This study aims to emphasize the significance of spatializing and visualizing phenomena in a territory through cartographic practices. This information can be utilized as a decision-making factor for future action plans to enhance the quality of life. The study utilized national-level datasets at the 4-digit CAEN code level with relevant indicators for the economy sector, education sector, health sector, and population. Collected data are analyzed and structured in GIS datasets for indicators of economy, health, education and population of Romania. Representative mapping techniques were then applied to generate maps for each dataset used in the analysis. A series of thematic maps were created to illustrate the current situation in public administration through the use of cartographic techniques. The results of the study indicate that the methodology used is effective in mapping the current state of public administration. This approach provides an opportunity for cartography to demonstrate the importance of spatial visualization and analysis in the public administration sector.

ABSTRACT. In the contemporary digital landscape, election maps are pivotal tools for visualizing complex electoral data, offering insights into democratic processes and outcomes. However, interpreting these maps poses significant challenges, particularly for laymen. These challenges are intensified when maps depict large states with few inhabitants, potentially skewing perceptions of electoral significance and geographic representation. Recognizing the critical role of effective map design in democratic engagement, our study analyzed interactive election maps through the lens of eye-tracking technology. This innovative approach allowed us to observe users' visual engagement patterns as they navigated through various map designs, providing a unique vantage point into the cognitive processes underpinning map interpretation. Our research utilized a cohort of 20 high-school students. After the eye-tracking sessions, participants underwent psychological testing to classify them as analytical or holistic thinkers. This classification explored how different cognitive approaches influence interaction with and interpretation of election maps. During the study, eye-tracking data were recorded alongside verbal responses from participants, enabling a multimodal dataset that combines verbal feedback with visual attention patterns. The findings of this study have profound implications for the field of cartography, especially in the design of election maps. By highlighting specific areas where users encounter interpretative difficulties, our research underscores the necessity for cartographers to incorporate cognitive principles into map design. Integrating eye-tracking data into the design process promises to enhance the usability and accessibility of election maps, ensuring they provide a wider audience with varying expertise and cognitive styles. Through this work, we advocate for a more inclusive approach to cartographic design, one that not only informs but also empowers all citizens in the democratic process.

ABSTRACT. This manuscript presents a study on calculating and visualizing air pollution resulting from traffic volume, a crucial aspect of environmental management. It begins with a comprehensive review of existing methodologies for estimating emissions from road traffic and models for pollutant dispersion. Next, the manuscript introduces an integration of selected algorithms of both emission and dispersion into a GIS environment.

The manuscript's essential contribution is the development of advanced interactive visualizations. These visualizations are not only a means of representing data but also an essential tool for understanding complex environmental phenomena. By employing principles of thematic cartography, the visualizations provide insightful, user-friendly interfaces that depict pollution levels through two-dimensional and three-dimensional visualizations. These visualizations are accessible online, enhancing their utility for a broader audience, including policymakers, researchers, and the general public (https://emissions-dp.glitch.me).

The study's results offer insights into traffic-induced air pollutants' spatial and temporal distribution. By combining sophisticated calculation methods with dynamic visualizations, the manuscript provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of road traffic on air quality.

ABSTRACT. Rozafa Castle, a famous cultural heritage monument located in the western part of today’s city of Shkodra, 130 m above sea level, is one of the largest and most historically and architecturally important castles in Albania. Of all the hills in the region, the one on which the castle is situated, has the most central and strategic location. The history of the castle dates back to the 4th or early 3rd century BC. The castle itself is made up of four courtyards, each of which has its own and unique characteristics. A quantitative geodiversity assessment for the Shkodra Region was previously carried out by the authors, which examined five variables: geological, morphological, soil, mineral resources and main fossil types in the area. In one of the main geodiversity “hot spot” areas highlighted, Rozafa Castle was included. The high geodiversity of the area is a result of the variety of geological formations and morphology. Historians also believe that the castle’s location, situated on the highest part of the hill, with limestone formations and steep slopes, provided protection and control over all routes into the city. Thus, in the case of the Rozafa Castle, the relationship between geodiversity and cultural heritage is important, and it was worth to exploit further. This study aims to present the current 3D survey of Rozafa Castle, along with the detailed topographic map of it derived from the model. During the development of this work, the Castle was surveyed using drone technology and GPS equipment. Imaging data were processed using Agisoft Metashape software to create a 3D model of the Castle. The obtained model served as the basis for further procedures. The results of the research can be used to enrich the tourist experience of the Castle and to further investigate the relationship between geodiversity and cultural heritage.

ABSTRACT. Within the framework of an applied research project, the goal is to support fully distant forms of higher education by introducing collaborative immersive virtual reality. One of the specific challenges of distance education is a relatively high dropout rate, which we believe may be partly caused by student isolation. While some distance universities offer their students the option to use physical campuses, this does not address the issue of isolation. Students do not encounter their peers, and distance learning students are not only geographically distant but often at different stages of their studies. In this perspective, we see a solution in the utilization of collaborative immersive virtual environments that students can enter from different locations at agreed-upon times. Our previous research has shown that collaborative immersive virtual environments not only have positive effects on subject learning (e.g., English or geography) but also positively impact the creation of social bonds among students. Students likened their experience in CIVE (Collaborative Immersive Virtual Environment) closer to the real world than conventional online 2D learning. Our goal is to create an environment and applications in CIVE that support social cohesion among groups of distance students. The first prototype is an application called "Studium - terra incognita," which uses spatial analogies of exploring a new world to navigate the study program. As part of the solution, there is also the design of a specialized map that allows distance education institutions to share general information about their programs. These maps will primarily serve as a tool for creating a community of users who can share tools, content, and techniques in the field of immersive virtual reality.

ABSTRACT. Immersive 3D geovisualizations offer unprecedented opportunities for experiencing and exploring geosites, offering a powerful tool for conveying geoheritage sites history and significance to diverse audiences. This study explores the integration of high-resolution unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) data with virtual reality (VR) environments to create immersive experiences in geosites and, more specifically, Plaka’s park in Sigrion on Lesvos island, Greece. Plaka’s park has a coastal area and a land part where more than thirty fossilized trunk trees exist. UAVs are deployed to capture high-resolution aerial imagery of geoheritage sites from various perspectives. Scale-variant flight planning techniques are used to ensure that drone data acquisition has the desired spatial resolution based on a 1:50 cartographic scale. Additionally, terrestrial image acquisition was implemented to capture the fossil sites on a cartographic scale of 1:5. Furthermore, terrestrial 360 panoramas were captured to enhance the immersive environment and the user experience. The acquired imagery are then processed using structure-for-motion algorithms to generate detailed 3D models of the sites and the fossilized tree trunks. The produced 3D models are integrated into VR environments to create immersive user experiences. Using a VR immersive environment, users can explore the geosites fully interactively, gaining insights into their significance, unique placement, and fossil details. The integration of high-resolution UAS data enhances the visual fidelity and realism of the VR experience, allowing users to navigate to the geosites with unprecedented detail and accuracy. By providing immersive experiences that transcend physical boundaries, these technologies have the potential to democratize access to geosites and foster greater appreciation and understanding among diverse audiences. Integrating high-resolution UAV data with VR environments is a promising approach to creating immersive 3D visualizations of geosites. Through a combination of advanced technologies and innovative methodologies, these immersive experiences offer new avenues for exploring, interpreting, and experiencing geoheritage in the digital age.

ABSTRACT. The paper presents current grant research project that is aimed at researching the cultural, social, economic and transport technical development of railways in the Czech lands/Czechoslovakia. Because of its historical development, the Czech railway network used to be the most dense in the world which makes it quite unique even from the global perspective. The project focuses on the importance of the railway for the creation of industrial landscapes (intramural, extramural), for regions with supra-regional (provincial, national) links and for society (enabling the circulation of goods, people, employment, leisure, changes in settlement, culture and art). Within the project, an online 2D interactive web map application, showing the spatio-temporal development of railways in Czech Lands over a period of almost 200 years will be developed. In addition to GIS data enhanced with attributes from a comprehensive historical railway database, the online map application will be supplemented with spatially localised archival written, iconographic and audiovisual material. Another planned output is a 3D web application visualising the development of an extinct local railway from Vlašim to Dolní Kralovice, which was partly destroyed due to construction of water dam in 1960s. Models used for this application will be created using CAD software and procedural modelling based on historical postcards, paintings, photographs and building plans. One of the aims of this 3D scene is also to procedurally visualize vegetation around the railway based on the former land cover depicted on the old maps. The whole project is based on processing old maps and plans from 19th and 20th century that are used to recreate and analyse the development process of our railway network.

ABSTRACT. The relevance of work in the field of cartographic visualization is related to the global trend of transitioning to three-dimensional space modeling. Currently, technologies for creating 3D maps have become available to a wide range of users. The implementation of GIS, landscape generators, and 3D graphics software in cartography has made it possible to produce high-quality 3D maps, including those used in education. However, the classifications of 3D maps and the terminology used to describe them are often contradictory, and the variety of software tools without an appropriate scientific and methodological basis creates difficulties in creating competent cartographic works. The article analyzes the scientific literature on the topic of 3D mapping, as a result of which it was revealed that there is no unified classification of 3D cartographic works. Additionally, some of the existing classifications conflict with each other. As a result of the analysis and personal practical experience in map creation, a new classification of 3D maps, cartographic models, and other geoimages is developed. The classification is fully applicable to educational maps. Cartographic products are considered in detail by methods of visualization and by the nature of user interaction with the 3D image. Cartographers partially transfer the cartographic design principles from 2D maps to 3D maps, but the result is not always successful. Additional principles specific to 3D maps are usually set by them independently for each specific product, depending on the scale, purpose, etc. This paper presents the additional experimental studies for 3D maps that have been carried out and formulate principles that are relevant to 3D maps for education purposes.

ABSTRACT. The main focus of the present study is to create a sound model of the surface displacements occurred after earthquake that struck the Crete Island on September 27, 2021. The prime source of information for the produced ground motions maps are the SAR data from Sentinel-1 mission processed by DInSAR method that delivers interferometric images. The data were selected in a manner that aim to reflect, as much as possible, the co-seismic effects of the main event only, without considering the fore and aftershocks. In order to increase the final quality of the results we processed SAR data from ascending and descending orbits of the satellite using the freely provided software by ESA purposely developed to work with SAR data. Our calculations revealed that the largest displacements based of single interferograms, show the predominant negative movements in line-of sight (LoS) of the satellite, indicating subsidence. Their magnitudes for the most affected region are -16 cm from the ascending orbit and -13 cm from the descending orbit. Further processing of the line-of-sight (LoS) results was conducted to decompose them into real movements in vertical (up-down) and horizontal (E-W) components. In addition to the maps produced by SAR, modelling of the event was carried out using the Okada method with different geometries. The results are supplemented with information on the well-known faults in the region. The maps generated from SAR data were compared with the results obtained using the Okada method, revealing a good compatibility between the two.

ABSTRACT. A geodatabase of earthquakes that occurred on the Balkan Peninsula and the adjacent area has been created. The database includes information on historical earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 6.0 and earthquakes from the instrumental period to the present day with a magnitude greater than 3.2. Maps of the spatial distribution of earthquakes, along with their magnitudes, have been elaborated. On the maps, existing and confirmed faults are described together with the boundaries of the seismic zones. Based GIS is possible to filter the data on the map in order to reduce the results and reach the necessary selected information as needed by the end user. The creation of a register (database) of earthquakes in the Balkans and neighboring territories with a magnitude above 5.0 on the Richter scale for the period after 2015 and their visualization by location is the first and main step in the implementation project " Study of co-seismic deformations of the earth's crust for the territory of the Balkan Peninsula based on satellite data" launched in December 2023. The purpose of the project is to disclose deformations on the Earth's surface using innovative methods. The main task is to demonstrate operational readiness to determine the size of the deformations of the Earth's surface, the size of the affected areas, and to prepare maps of the displacements that have occurred. This goal will be achieved through the creation and implementation of a reliable methodology for extracting high-quality information from SAR products targeting continuous monitoring of areas that could be considered as potential sources of strong earthquakes, integrating information mainly from interferometric images and GNSS data, as well as other freely available sources.

ABSTRACT. The Balkan Peninsula is a territory that is often affected by earthquakes. Mapping and GIS analyses of earthquakes that have already occurred can lead to a better understanding of the phenomena and help take adequate measures for preparation and protection in the long term. Interactive web mapping is a modern tool for providing information in a distributed way for a wide range of users. The paper presents a web map of the tectonic plates and the location of all earthquakes that have occurred in the last 100 years in the Balkan Peninsula. To improve the visibility and comprehensibility of the map, several levels of detail are created. Earthquakes with a magnitude above 6 on the Richter scale are visualized at a small scale on the map. When zooming in on the "country" level, earthquakes with a magnitude greater than 4 are also visualized, and when zooming in as much as possible, all are visualized. By using a filter, the larger the scale becomes, the more low-magnitude earthquakes are visualized. Тhe map includes information about tectonic plates, charts for earthquakes in the most affected countries, as well as charts for the years with the most occurrences based on GIS analyses. A timeline was created with the idea of visualizing the earthquakes that have occurred over the years by overlaying them in time. The map was created using specialized freely available data and aims to acquaint a wide range of users with the significance of earthquakes in the considered territory, as well as to serve for future analyses and research in the field.

ABSTRACT. Geographic information systems are essential in research concerning hazards and adverse processes. Floods are among the most common hazards leading to serious material damage, loss of human life, and destruction of infrastructure and buildings. The natural factors influencing flooding are fundamental in risk assessment because they determine the speed, duration, and magnitude of the events. Subsequently, these factors are supplemented by anthropogenic factors, which also involve the preparedness of local authorities to respond and influence both the occurrence and consequences of flooding. The present study is focused on spatial modeling in a geo-information environment, using data generated by the digital elevation model and precipitation values for a certain period. The selected area has a high degree of economic development, which requires higher attention and precautionary assessment of flood risk to preserve both the population and infrastructure. Classes of coefficients for elevation, slope gradient, rainfall, Euclidean distance from streams, direction of streams, and land cover are introduced through GIS modeling. The coefficients are processed, by summing the weights, and an image is produced with five hazard classes assigned. The areas with different degrees of vulnerability from the point of view of environmental conditions have been zoned and mapped. The zonation showed the conformity of the high-hazard areas with the elevation indices and spatial differences in certain sections of the study area of the Mesta River basin.

ABSTRACT. The article presents a cartographic analysis of the material accumulated as a result of many years of fieldwork about avalanche-prone places in the mountainous region of Adjara. Snowy, frosty winter, human casualties and destruction caused by avalanches in the territory of Adjara in different years made it clear that the population is not immune from this event. During these years, as a result of avalanches, 50 people died, hundreds of houses were damaged, forest were destroyed. Many families received the status of eco-migrants. Avalanches from 161 avalanche traps threaten 87 settlements. It should be noted that the slopes of more than 150 degrees in the high-mountainous part make up 83% of the territory. The presented maps include: hypsometry of the Adjara-Imereti area, the inclination of the slopes of the region of the same area and the vegetation cover. The maps of snow cover and avalanche danger are compiled only for the territory of Adjara. A map of the snow cover has been compiled. The degree of avalanche danger in the mountainous areas of Adjara is important, the definition and mapping of which depends on such quantitative characteristics as the avalanche activity of the area, the frequency of the spread of avalanches, the frequency of arrival of avalanches, and the duration of the avalanche-risk period. Also we have given avalanche danger areas by villages.

Currently, the activity of avalanches is reduced, which is due to the increase in the rate of afforestation. This has a positive impact on the social and economic stability of this region. The maps themselves are an important guide in the control and management of conflicts, which will prevent the region from impending disaster.

ABSTRACT. This article introduces a detailed spatio-temporal data model and GIS-based analytical framework designed to evaluate the risk and predict the impact of snowstorms, blizzards, and icing events on transportation infrastructure within the territory of Bulgaria. Given the country's varied geography and climate conditions, Bulgaria is frequently confronted with winter weather hazards that disrupt its transportation networks and endanger public safety. The study integrates various sources of spatio-temporal data, including meteorological records, terrain characteristics, and road infrastructure datasets, to construct a comprehensive analytical model.

The methodology is centered around the use of spatial interpolation techniques for modeling of meteorological variables, terrain analysis to pinpoint areas susceptible to snow accumulation, and the identification of icing risk zones utilizing temperature and precipitation data. It integrates temporal dynamics to accurately represent the changing nature of winter weather conditions and their consequent effects on transportation infrastructure over time. The proposed approach is based on GIS capabilities to spatially visualize and analyze the data, providing valuable insights into the spatial distribution and intensity of winter weather risks.

Focused on Bulgaria, the research validates the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in assessing the vulnerability of transportation infrastructure to winter weather phenomena. Through spatial analysis, it identifies high-risk zones, aiding in the prioritization of mitigation actions and supporting decision-making for winter weather preparedness and emergency response strategies. The outcomes of this research are pivotal in bolstering the resilience of Bulgaria's transportation infrastructure against the adverse impacts of winter weather, thereby ensuring safer and more reliable transportation systems. This study not only contributes to the academic field by enhancing understanding of winter weather impacts but also gives practical guidelines for infrastructure planning and management in regions prone to severe winter conditions.

ABSTRACT. Chorem is a synthetic form of cartographic representation that focuses, as if through a lens, research findings on scenarios related to complex political, demographic, economic, spatial organisation and dynamics, globalisation and other issues. With its visual metaphors, it provides a highly effective approach to helping users to find facts and new patterns. To date, chorems have been studied from a variety of perspectives. It is believed that chorems well represent geographic knowledge, facilitate visual summaries of data, and could ultimately be used to create a new input for geographic databases. They are seen as a decision support tools, particularly for domain experts to provide quick and comprehensive answers in critical situations. They are also recognised as operational inference tools for modelling geographic space. The research objective of the study is a critical comparative analysis of the chorems available in the literature. In the research reported here, the authors analysed the schematic nature of the method, the generalisation of content and the inherent accuracy of location in cartography and geographic information systems, reduced in chorems to simple ideograms. The chorems were examined in terms of thematic scope and generalisation. Dozens of articles containing chorems were analysed, mainly scientific articles and atlases. The results of the analysis made it possible to distinguish two main groups of chorems: spatial and spatio-temporal chorems within which it is possible to distinguish economic, physiographic and complex chorems. Each group was further divided into sub-groups based on the thematic scope, the symbols used and the degree of generalisation. Finally, some chorems representative of the distinguished groups for Poland were developed.

ABSTRACT. The work deals with the calculation, mapping and GIS analysis of the landscape diversity of Georgia against the background of the world. Unlike biological diversity, landscape diversity is more closely related to area.

The calculated empirical formula has the following form:

LandNB = 0..0704Area/10000 (1)

where: LandNB - the number of landscapes, Area/10000 - the area of the country divided by 10000, i.e. Cultivated per 10,000 km2.

The mean square deviation is 0.57, which confirms a not so bad relationship between the area of the country and the number of landscapes.

In a simple calculation of the number of landscapes per 10,000 km2, small countries such as Lebanon and Cyprus take first place. In this case, Armenia is ahead of Georgia because it has a small area and therefore a high landscape diversity per 10,000 km2 unit. It seems that in order to bring the countries into a single area, we need to calculate a special coefficient, similar to the one used to calculate the index of biological diversity.

The following formula is used to calculate the average number of landscapes: Lavg=Lsum/S (2) where: Lsum - the total number of landscapes in a given country, Lavg - the number of landscapes in a unit of "tidy" area.

According to the calculations, the following countries entered the top ten: China (12.5), Georgia (11.1), USA (10.5), Russia (8.6), Azerbaijan (7.4), Lebanon (6.9), South Korea (6.6M), Italy (6.5), Costa Rica (6.4), Mexico (6.3).

Calculating and researching landscape diversity is most convenient using the cartographic method (based on a grid of degrees), through GIS analysis.

ABSTRACT. Abstract. The choice of cartographic method and form of graphic presentation of demographic indicators of a certain territorial entity affects the effectiveness of visual representation for various geospatial analyses. The quantity and quality of information provided by the map are defined by the applied mapping method through the properties: of transparency, self-evidence, metricity, and expressiveness. Graphic expressiveness and stylistic harmony of thematic information are achieved by using color and symbols. The possibility of spatial and substantive generalization, classification, and grouping of mapped indicators is achieved through color. On thematic maps, symbols in the form of geometric figures, and a large number of integrated data are presented clearly and transparently. Forms, that are both graphical and numerical, which display demographic indicators through symbols require metric accuracy. Symbols, with their dimensions, provide a representation consistent with the size of the phenomenon they represent. In addition to the systematic arrangement of symbols, the application of conditional and absolute scales, and metricity can be achieved with a semi-proportionally determined scale. Through semi-proportional dimensioning, the metric of the symbol is optimally adjusted according to the corresponding numerical values of the series of demographic indicators. The form of cartographic presentation of demographic indicators requires specific approaches to mapping, to more comprehensively express the semiometric dimension. The choice of method and form of cartographic presentation determines the degree of discovery about the patterns of the population distribution, its size and intensity of development, the tendency of movement, the state and changes of structures and relationships, and the spatial and temporal characteristics of changes. This paper performs an analysis and comparison of selected applied cartographic methods through the examples provided. The evaluation focuses on display properties, the selection of demographic indicators, and the choice of scale. The importance of semi-scale mapping through its differentiated, unified, and comparative view is particularly highlighted. These procedures enable direct semiometric measurement - reading and calculation of mapped numerical values of demographic indicators.

ABSTRACT. The idea of creation of the soil map of Georgia on the landscape basis is closely related to the problem of studying the soil as one of the components of the landscape.

In order to arrange the maps, we have used landscape and soil maps of Georgia with the scale of 1:500000. Landscape map of Georgia is created by Professor Nikoloz Beruchashvili, the Soil Map of Georgia – by Professor Tengiz Urushadze. The modern point of view of the scientists is presented in these maps.

As a result of arranging the maps, we have created the Soil Map of Georgia on the landscape basis, with the scale of 1:500 000. While working on the maps we have used landscape contours and have entered soil insides in it, i.e. the landscape contours remained the same and soil type was placed in it. While arranging, some of the landscape contours were united, division did not occur. By doing so, we have brought the soils presented on the landscape map into one system.

The Soil Map of Georgia on the landscape basis is quite convenient, for both landscape and soil examinations. The map is in correlation with the international classifications of the soil and represents the real precondition for creating the landscape-geochemical map of Georgia. While using this map, we can also easily determine which soil is found in which landscape, compare them with each other define their area and so on.

Thus, by using the Soil map on the landscape basis, during landscape and soil examination, with the use of GIS methods, we can obtain interesting results to solve lots of interesting issues.

ABSTRACT. The process of apprehending the presentation of maps is tested from the standpoint of the theory of reverberation and engineering psychology. Тhe work of the visual analyzers and the formation of an imaginary map in human consignation are described. Тhe transformation of the map from a material result of cognition into an object of knowledge is carried out on the basis of complex physical processes. The application of certain methods of engineering psychology for visualization the images of maps are suggested based on analysis and comparisons with the aim of establishing optimum sizes forms colors structures lines and combinations of map combinational methods and symbols and then the pictural methods for certain conditions of using the maps. In order the reader of the map to establish without hesitation the belonging of neighboring elements to certain degrees of the scale, it is necessary to ensure a difference between the individual degrees. The differences should not significantly exceed the operational threshold, as reading fatigue then occurs. There are not only optimal values, but also optimal zones in which the distinction between individual characters or color degrees is most accurately perceived. The purpose of this research is to establish these sizes, shapes, colors, structures, patterns, and combinations of cartographic characters. These methods and combinations between them shape the map and ensured optimal perception of map information.

ABSTRACT. Territory attractiveness assessment uses two basic types of input data. Statistical data are used in studies that work with administrative or statistical units (e.g., states, municipalities or NUTS areas). Studies carried out in territorial units with no fixed administrative boundaries often use socio-economic geography techniques such as field research, questionnaires or interviews to obtain data. Spatial data and geoinformation technology (GIT) are neglected in most data-driven assessments of the attractiveness of an area despite the fact that they are respected, updated and rich sources of information and widely used tools. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the importance and benefits of incorporating spatial data and GIT into the process of data-driven territory attractiveness assessment. The described research focuses on complementing the data-driven territory attractiveness assessment methodology with aspects related to spatial data, spatial data mining and GIT. The implications of integrating spatial data and GIT into the process of area attractiveness assessment are illustrated through a use case that deals with the assessment of ski resorts on the border of Austria, Germany and the Czech Republic from the perspective of families with children.

ABSTRACT. This article proposes the concept of establishing a thematic atlas information integration and sharing service platform, which is based on the information of various types of thematic atlases published in China. Based on the scientific, systematic, integrated, and professional characteristics of thematic atlases as scientific data achievements, the sharing service platform involves the induction and integration of information resources, establishes a thematic atlas information database, develops a construction of map dynamic visualization and online publication of thematic information. Through customized geographic base map data process for publication, interactive thematic statistical charts drawing, interactive thematic map cartography skills and geo-statistical models researching, the platform provides geographic data visualization and data spatialization techniques to meet personalized needs of experience of interactive maps. The writers design and develop an integrated online sharing platform which includes atlas information part, for example, table of contents, and a part of atlas establishing, in this part, the platform encompasses various modes of atlas: static atlas, dynamic atlas, and interactive maps, and the platform combines with a function of online atlas publishing system. This platform supports the governmental decision-making departments, researchers, and individuals, and provides different perspectives from book digital publishing and information releasing field. The writers aim to create a public and sharing service platform that integrates cartographic products, technological supports, customized services, and data acquisition into a layered, open, multi-interface structure. Additionally, the platform incorporates a digital encryption system for thematic map data protection, providing watermark and encryption protection for geographical data in different formats. Nowadays, under the background of the prosperous of internet and new media, this platform not only ensures the copyright protection and data traceability, also offers consideration and solutions for the digital publishing of atlases by a comprehensive one-step thematic map online service.

ABSTRACT. Geographic Information System (GIS) is an increasingly used tool in the tourism promotion of historical relics due to its multiple capabilities and methods of spatial analysis, but also due to the possibility of integrating spatial data into applications that can be published online. Through this study we propose the development of an online cartographic application that will bring interactivity to the field discovery of archaeological resources in the historical region of Dobrogea, located in south-eastern Romania. We have chosen the ancient city of Tomis as a case study. Tomis is the ancient name of the city of Constanta, the oldest city in Romania and the largest in the Dobrogea region. The analysis involves, first of all, the manipulation of spatial data. The applied working method aims to create an interactive map that will superimpose as accurately as possible the plan of the ancient city on the satellite map of Constanta, one of the most visited cities in Romania. Publishing the results on the internet will increase the practical importance of the application, which can be useful in several fields: education, tourism, urban planning, etc. Although geospatial analysis has been used in other studies on the Dobrogea region, the approach chosen for this study brings novelty through the proposed results, as such an application is not available for archaeological resources in Romania. In this way, we will contribute to the promotion of archaeological resources that have been lost or moved from their original location using GIS modeled geospatial data.

ABSTRACT. The growing interest in enhancing the user-friendliness of digital applications, especially web maps, underlines the necessity for a deeper understanding of user needs and continuous improvement of web applications' interactivity. Despite efforts to meet the demands and preferences of general users, challenges persist in utilizing maps, notably in design, content, and functionality. This paper delves into the complexities of evaluating the usability of dynamic stimuli compared to their static counterparts, acknowledging that dynamic stimuli present a more challenging landscape. The contribution outlines the challenges of employing interactive versus static stimuli in cartographic eye-tracking studies. In exploring these issues, this paper presents innovative approaches to addressing dynamic stimuli based on data from two experimental studies. One of them employed remote eye-trackers and dynamic stimuli (web atlas), while in the second one, eye-tracking glasses were used during the work with static stimuli (paper atlas). The contribution's practical part describes the unification process of both datasets and their use for extracting user behavior data, aiming to subsequent comparison and analysis of user work with atlases. From the perspective of data processing, combining eye-tracking glasses and static stimuli is a time-consuming task with several pitfalls described in the contribution. Processing a static stimulus allows for the automatic assignment of fixations (since the content does not change). In contrast, an interactive stimulus represents a more complex data processing process due to the variable content. Therefore, recording user behavior with interactive stimuli is also a challenge. Future research directions aim to uncover additional approaches for evaluating dynamic and interactive stimuli, contributing significantly to the usability assessment of digital map applications. This paper’s innovative approach and findings provide a foundation for further exploration in enhancing the user experience in interactive web environments.

ABSTRACT. Geoportals are becoming the most important element of the modern geospatial industry, as a mean of operational analysis and access to the spatial information resources. This article examines issues related to the possibility of using the cartographic method, web mapping in particular, to study socio-economic and demographic processes in the regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The study presents the structure of the socio-demographic information database and geoportal of the West Kazakhstan region, developed within the framework of the project “Sustainable development of natural-economic and socio-economic systems of the West Kazakhstan region in the context of green growth: comprehensive analysis, concept, forecast estimates and scenarios”, describes a platform for information, data and tools for analysis. The developed information database of the geoportal in integration with GIS systems will provide the ability to visualize and increase the efficiency of analysis of socio-demographic data of the regions of western Kazakhstan. Integration of the PostGIS extension for PostgreSQL, which provides tools for storing and processing spatial data, will ensure effective management of geodata in the PostgreSQL database. The article also describes the current situation in the field of designing geoportals in the country. Examples of currently existing geoportals and digital atlases on demography, migration, quality of life of the population and socio-economic development of the regions of Kazakhstan and the experience of their development by these authors are presented. The created digital resources are intended both for use by a wide range of users interested in the socio-demographic development of regions and for work in the scientific and academic field. Geoportals can be used to support management of decision-making in the field of optimizing socio-demographic and migration processes in the regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

ABSTRACT. Urban disasters are characterized by diversity, complexity, man-made, and magnification, which have severely restricted the sustainable social and economic development. The existing urban disaster response scenario construction lacks the detailed analysis and cognition of different types of emergency users' attention, resulting in the difficulty of constructing the scenario to adapt to the high perception efficiency of different types of emergency users. In order to fill this study gap, this study focused on mapping the user attention to the scenario elements and proposed a user-oriented attention model. Specifically, this study took urban waterlogging as example, first briefly analysed the mechanism of urban waterlogging and corresponding response activities, and proposed the elements of different scenarios of urban waterlogging response stages. Then, based on TextRank algorithm and word frequency analysis method, the hot keywords related to urban waterlogging response were extracted and analysed from text data such as social media and emergency plans, and matched the elements of the scenario. Based on the analysis of social attributes and coping characteristics of users, a classification system of emergency users was established, and the key word matching results were combined to study the attention of different types of emergency users. Finally, based on domain ontology, the user attention model between emergency user group and urban waterlogging response scenario elements was realized. Based on the user attention model, eye tracking measures (Valtakari et al., 2021) such as user fixation duration, saccade amplitude, and pupil size are further studied based on the eye tracker in the constructed urban waterlogging emergency scenario, to qualitatively and quantitatively analyse users’ perception of urban waterlogging scenario elements, such as the basic geographic objects, disaster objects, disaster information objects, and emergency management objects (Li et al., 2020).

ABSTRACT. In 2022, a massive forest fire devastated one of the most valuable parts of the Bohemian Switzerland National Park. The commanding officer's staff was established to support the commanding officer responsible for managing this enormous emergency. Such immense emergency management is only possible with proper spatial and non-spatial data support. Because of the importance of data support in managing such large emergencies, the article describes the lessons learned from data support of this emergency, the data used to manage this emergency, and the necessary data workflows and processing. It also tries to formulate recommendations for people involved in such activities in the future. It deals not only with backing the work of the staff from the usual workplace, but it also addresses the direct work in commanding officer staff. Finally, it also describes the participation in the subsequent response assessment. The article also discusses the various kinds of data used to support emergency management, from satellite and other remote sensing data through daily situation reports to the final emergency documentation.

ABSTRACT. Avalanche danger is one of the natural phenomena that can result in human casualties, significant damage to material property and environment. Conducting studies on monitoring and assessment of avalanche danger for prevention is one of the urgent tasks. In East Kazakhstan there are about 500 avalanche sites, about 60% of which threaten economic entities, human life. For monitoring and avalanche risk assessment, statistical data from the Department of Emergency Situations observations, as well as data obtained from space imagery are used. Today remote sensing is a powerful tool for monitoring, analysing and assessing existing situations, determining the relationship between the parameters affecting avalanches. Based on Remote Sensing data, more than 160 different indices are calculated today, which are used to characterise various phenomena and determine the most important characteristics of the objects under consideration. To research avalanche-prone areas, maps of avalanche-prone zones of East Kazakhstan region were developed in scales 1: 5 000 - 1 : 20 000, which were built using Bing Satellite space images with spatial resolution of 0.5 m per pixel. The conducted morphometric analysis of avalanche slope steepness based on radar images (SRTM) showed convergence with field survey data.

ABSTRACT. The purpose of this study was to assess the quality elements of OpenStreetMap (OSM) spatial database in relation to their use in the crisis management process. The research analyzes this process in the context of the need for spatial data, which are indispensable in a crisis situation. The analysis will be carried out on selected areas of Poland, taking as reference official spatial database from the national database of topographic objects at a scale of 1:10.000 (BDOT10k) and the database produced and used by the military: Vector Map Level 2 (VML2). The main elements of spatial data quality, such as geometric accuracy and completeness of the data, were analyzed in terms of both geometric and descriptive attributes. OpenStreetMap data quality studies used objects consisting of basic land cover elements with polygon-type geometry, which included such classes as e.g. buildings, surface water and forests. Analyses were carried out taking into account typical scenarios that we face in the process of crisis management, i.e. such as forest fire, conducting rescue operations or warfare, among others. The study was carried out for areas diverse in terms of land cover and urbanization development. The highest indicators of OSM data quality were obtained for objects of fairly easily recognizable and interpretable nature and shape. The best OSM spatial data quality results were recorded for highly urbanized areas with developed infrastructure. Analyses have shown that while geometrically OSM data are very suitable for use in the crisis management process, in terms of storing descriptive characteristics in them their applicability is highly problematic and requires the use of complementary data sources.

ABSTRACT. Statistics prove that the number of disaster, especially weather-related, have increased significantly during the last decades. This leads to high demands on participants in disaster management where the information base is an essential. Geodata, as a part of this information base, play a key role, i. e. for risk and vulnerability assessments and emergency response and recovery actions. This paper shows approaches for the provision of geodata to support decision makers and rescue staff in disaster situations. In a preliminary theoretical consideration the potential of geodata in disaster management is explained. The paper introduces two architectures of immediate geodata provision to support disaster management based on the usage of free data and free software components. While the first one uses tools from the OSGeo ecosystem and is implemented under Windows operating systems, the second implementation focuses on two pillars: The usage of NodeJs and PostGIS in the backend, and the provision of web-based data access based on the current OGC API Features standard using ldproxy. Corresponding to the server-side usage of JavaScript, this language is also used intensively on client-side for data download, storage, retrieval and visualisation with Leaflet as the underlying mapping library. For the affected area data from the OpenStreetMap database can be downloaded and stored locally. Remote sensing data – a priori and a posteriori taken of an affected area – can be integrated as well using API calls to Google Earth Engine. In addition further geospatial data can be digitised in situ to update and extend the geodata. Data download in web browser or GIS is granted based on the OGC API – Features standard using ldproxy and Geoserver alternatively. Both tools are compared regarding different performance aspects. Overall the authors present results to provide some new ideas and experiences regarding rapid and task-adequate geodata provision for disaster management.

ABSTRACT. This research explores the transformative potential of web mapping in advancing the comprehension and proactive management of rockfall hazards, with a specific focus on the intricate terrain of the Imereti Limestone Massif in the Kvirila River Canyon. Employing advanced modeling tools, notably Rockyfor3D software, the study integrates web mapping technologies to create real-time, accessible, and interactive representations of hazard models. The model, utilizing both physically-based deterministic algorithms and stochastic approaches, establishes Rockyfor3D as a probabilistic process-based rockfall trajectory model.

Through the integration of web mapping, this research extends beyond traditional spatial mapping, enabling stakeholders to remotely explore and analyze topographical intricacies, geological features, and vulnerabilities in existing infrastructure. The synergy of sophisticated modeling and web mapping not only aids in identifying high-risk zones but also facilitates seamless collaboration among researchers, decision-makers, and the community.

Emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach, the article illustrates the utility of web mapping in synthesizing geological, geotechnical, morphological, and engineering data into an intuitive visual interface. This not only enhances the accuracy of hazard assessments but also empowers decision-makers with real-time insights, fostering more informed and timely mitigation strategies.

The article underscores the interactive nature of web mapping in evaluating the effectiveness of protective measures and mitigation efforts. With dynamic updates and layered analysis, web mapping ensures adaptability to evolving rockfall dynamics, ultimately enhancing overall resilience. In conclusion, this article advocates for the integration of web mapping technologies in rockfall hazard assessment, presenting a paradigm shift towards comprehensive, accessible, and dynamic solutions for mitigating the impact of rockfall hazards in the Imereti Limestone Massif and beyond