Example of spatial analysis and management in the geographic and conformal projection domains

This contribution describes the technical experience of Istituto di Geologia Marina in cartographic mapping and spatial data display and analysis. The importance of using conformal cartography in geology and geophysics is stressed in terms of readability, transportability, and standardization of data. Some problems are discussed that arise when attempting to link good standard cartography with spatial processing, i.e. the procedures of datum change and the accuracy of capturing, storing and converting geographical coordinates. Interactive computer programs were developed that: (1) perform coordinate transformation and accurate datum shifts, (2) capture geographical coordinates from conformal projections, (3) digitize and manage data from continuous analog profiles, and (4) produce good-quality composite maps in conformal projections from data sets in geographical coordinates, while performing spatial analysis by interfacing graphics systems (e.g. SURFACE II). The results from the programs indicate their usefulness in geological and geophysical applications.