USGS AS-11A analytical stereoplotters are being updated with
minicomputers, interfaces, and electronics, and additional complete
plotters are being purchased. A Kern PG2 stereoplotter has been
modified to provide three-axis digitization of both point and line
data, and additional digitizing systems for conventional plotters are
being procured. Other compatible instruments are being acquired--an
analytical stereocomparator with minicomputer, manual digitizing tables,
interactive edit system, precision graphic plotters, general-purpose
computer, and automatic photoprocessors.
The Defense Mapping Agency digital terrain data tapes (from
1:250,000-scale maps) are being distributed to civil users through
NCIC.
9. Several developments have taken place in the area of
orthophotography:
a. A digital off-line orthophoto system has been
developed. Its components are: (1) a servo-controlled
profiling device for a stereoplotter (units have been
built for the Kern PG-2 and a Zeiss C-5 Stereoplanigraph);
(2) magnetic tape profile recording and playback unit;
(3) digitally controlled GZ-1 orthoprojector.
b. Comparative tests have been performed on eight
commercial orthophoto instruments, and additional
tests on other instruments have been planned.
c. A GPM-2 instrument has been installed to prepare
orthophotos and digital terrain data from high altitude
quad-centered aerial photographs.
d. Four experimental projects were performed by com-
mercial contract to determine the utility of large
scale (1:1200 to 1:6000) orthophotographic maps for
urban areas.
e. Experiments were conducted to classify coastal
wetlands on 1:10,000 scale orthophotoquads prepared
from color infrared photographs.
6. A variety of experimental cartographic projects were con-
ducted with Landsat Multispectral Scanner (MSS) records. These
include:
a. Color infrared versions of state base mosaics at
scale 1:500,000.
b. Single band mosaics and image bases for standard line
maps at scales 1:250,000 to 1:500,000.
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