May 23, 2023

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Categories: GIS Mapping

Using GIS in Astronomy To Make Sky Gazing Possible And Easy

Visualize the equipment required for space exploration.

Did you think of complex, large machinery with lots of switches and mechanisms? Us too.

But in reality, scientists use advanced technologies like geographic information systems or GIS in astronomy to explore the solar system and the universe beyond.

Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST), has wide applications for spatial data and visualizations in earth science. GIS professionals can provide intriguing information about our globe and other worlds using this technique.

In this blog, we explore how GIS technology is used in astronomy and its applications.

What is GIS?

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer system that analyses and displays spatial data from various sources to map and evaluate changes on Earth. It can also analyze satellite images, GPS records, and textual information linked to a specific source.

Scientists have used GIS to map the cosmos from space to comprehend it better. GIS helps us learn more about Earth and discover planets and solar system objects.

Applications of GIS in Astronomy

It is clear why geospatial reasoning is becoming more and more important for expanding our understanding of earth science and developing new lines of research when you look at how GIST is used in different sectors.

Remote sensing data and photos from Earth observations are represented in a GIS system to provide greater information about any region on Earth.

GIS in astronomy allows researchers to learn more about celestial bodies’ tectonic activity, geography, and mineral composition. Consequently, NASA has considered gathering and interpreting geographical data a crucial component of crewless missions.

These facts are gathered by probes and rovers employing various tools and technologies, such as the Multispectral Visible Imaging Camera on the Thermal Emission Imaging System on the 2001 Mars Odyssey spacecraft and the New Horizons mission to Pluto and the Kuiper Belt.

A plethora of the resultant spatial data on planets, moons, and other solar system objects are accessible through the Astrogeology Science Center. Scientists and the general public may interact with the maps to understand the geology and geography of these things.

How GIS Makes Sky Gazing Easy

Geographic Information System (GIS) offers a powerful lens to see the world and advanced instruments for resolving challenging issues. GIS-based innovations are still developing and rcfdegularly coming out. The innovations are visible in the advancements made in astronomy and sky gazing.

GIS provides the following ways in which we keep diving deeper into space.

  1. Tracking asteroids in the sky
  2. Recording possible UFO sightings
  3. Analysing Mars and its rugged terrain, determining the best way to land on Mars smoothly, and the sources of water flow on Mars
  4. Examining Milky Way
  5. Following and mapping the newest crater on the moon, Tycho

Conclusion

Modern geography can collect, examine, and disseminate information on locations on the surface of the Earth, thanks to the highly sophisticated technology of GIS. Regarding location intelligence, GIS data may offer crucial details like longitude, latitude, addresses, and zip codes.

Thus, GIS only moves upward in the field of sky gazing, letting us discover newer celestial objects and universes.