Visualization of the Invisible (Editorial)

Abstract

Visualizing geographical phenomena often involve communication of information and relationships through a map in either 2D or 3D. In many cases, the information conveyed through the map is a simplified and symbolic depiction of phenomena that is visible in our physical environment. However, maps are also effective for the communication of geographical phenomena that are hidden or are by nature “invisible” for the human eye. As well as invisible factors in our present environment, tracks of occurrences and events from the past have often been lost for many years. In the same way, future situations have still not materialized. This issue covers all these situations. From historical landscapes and events in the past, cadastre and underground geology today and urban planning for the future. The use of traditional cartographic techniques as well as virtual reality are discussed. Several of the research projects involve user studies. The main objectives contributing papers are to make the “invisible” information accessible and more understandable for humans.