American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
Name	American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing
Founded	0 1934
Headquarters	Bethesda, Maryland
Website	https://www.asprs.org/

American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing. It is a prominent scientific association dedicated to advancing the understanding and application of photogrammetry, remote sensing, geographic information systems, and related geospatial technologies. Founded in the 1930s, it serves as a central forum for professionals across academia, government, and private industry. The society promotes research, sets technical standards, and supports education to address challenges in fields like land use planning, environmental monitoring, and national security.

History

The society was established in 1934, emerging from the growing need for standardized practices in aerial photography and mapping, which were becoming critical for national projects like the Tennessee Valley Authority and the United States Geological Survey. Early leadership included figures like Robert O. D. Anderson and George D. Whitmore, who helped shape its initial focus on aerial survey techniques. Its evolution closely paralleled technological advancements, from World War II reconnaissance applications to the dawn of the Space Age with programs like Landsat. Key milestones include the formal adoption of "Remote Sensing" into its name in 1975 and its instrumental role in developing the National Map Accuracy Standards.

Organization and governance

Governance is structured around an elected Board of Directors, which includes the President, President-Elect, and regional Vice-Presidents representing districts across the United States. The society maintains its headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland, and operates through a network of local Regions and Student Chapters at institutions like Purdue University and the University of Florida. Key administrative functions are managed by an executive director, and policy is guided by a Constitution and Bylaws committee. Strategic partnerships are maintained with organizations such as the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.

Publications and conferences

Its flagship publication is the peer-reviewed Photogrammetric Engineering & Remote Sensing (PE&RS) journal, a leading periodical in the field first published in 1934. The society also produces the ASPRS Manual series, a comprehensive reference on geospatial technology, and proceedings from its major meetings. The premier event is the annual ASPRS Annual Conference, which features technical sessions and an exhibition. It also co-sponsors significant gatherings like the International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium and specialty conferences on topics such as lidar and UAV applications.

Education and awards

The society administers a robust Certification Program for professionals, including titles like Certified Photogrammetrist and Mapping Scientist. It supports academic growth through scholarships, internships, and resources for Student Chapters. A prestigious awards program recognizes excellence, with honors such as the Photogrammetric (Fairchild) Award, the Alan Gordon Memorial Award, and the ERDAS Award for Best Scientific Paper in Remote Sensing. These awards often honor contributions from leading figures at institutions like NASA, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and ESRI.

Technical divisions and committees

Technical work is organized into discipline-specific divisions, including the Primary Data Acquisition Division, the Professional Practice Division, and the Thematic and Mapping Sciences Division. Standing committees, such as the Standards Committee and the Aeronautical Survey Committee, develop guidelines on issues from lidar specifications to digital orthophoto standards. These groups often collaborate with federal agencies like the Federal Geographic Data Committee and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to influence national geospatial policy and data specifications.

Advocacy and public policy

The society actively engages in public policy advocacy to promote the importance of geospatial sciences to national interests. It provides expert testimony to bodies like the United States Congress and submits comments on federal regulations from agencies including the Federal Aviation Administration regarding UAV use. Key advocacy areas include supporting sustained funding for Earth observation programs like Landsat and NOAA satellites, promoting open data policies through the Open Geospatial Consortium, and contributing to national initiatives on climate change and infrastructure resilience.

Category:Scientific organizations based in the United States Category:Photogrammetry Category:Remote sensing organizations