What does cartography encompass in GEOINT?

In the context of Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT), cartography is fundamentally about the art and science of creating maps and spatial representations. This includes not only the technical skills involved in producing maps but also the understanding of the geographic principles and visual communication necessary to convey spatial information effectively. Cartography involves the selection of appropriate data, symbols, and scales to represent geographic features in a way that is accurate, clear, and useful to the intended audience.

This field combines elements of geography, design, and data analysis, making it a critical component of GEOINT, as maps serve as vital tools for decision-making in various applications, such as military operations, urban planning, and environmental monitoring. Thus, understanding how to create and interpret maps is essential for anyone involved in GEOINT practices.