Aerocartography

/ˌɛəroʊkɑrˈtɒɡrəfi/ noun

Definition

The science and practice of creating accurate maps using aerial photographs and observations from aircraft.

Etymology

From 'aero-' (air) combined with 'cartography' (from Greek kartos, map + graphia, writing). Developed as a distinct discipline in the early-20th century alongside aviation advances.

Kelly Says

Aerocartography was so militarily valuable that the best early satellite images were literally less detailed than what 1950s spy planes could capture—nations spent billions to spy from space because planes were too vulnerable and slow.

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