Geographic Information Systems Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Geographic Information Systems Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Geographic Information Systems Day is observed on November 16th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Geographic Information Systems Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you may want to know about Geographic Information Systems Day.

📅 What day is Geographic Information Systems Day 2024?

In 2024, Geographic Information Systems Day is on Thursday, November 16th. It is the 3rd Thursday in November; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all the cool details and facts about November 16, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

G.I.S. Day is a special day celebrated on the third Wednesday of November every year, and this year it falls on November 16. It is a day that aims to promote Geographic Information Systems, which are technology tools used for dealing with geographical and map-related data. The observance of G.I.S. Day was initiated by the Environmental Systems Research Institute back in 1999. The purpose of this holiday is to make it easier for people to utilize geographic systems in order to gain a better understanding of and manage various issues such as climate change, transportation planning, and population demographics. Ralph Nader served as the inspiration behind G.I.S. Day.

📜 Geographic Information Systems Day History

Over the past 50 years, Geographic Information Systems (G.I.S.) has transformed from a mere idea into a scientific discipline. G.I.S. originated in the 1960s when computers and early concepts of quantitative and computational geography emerged. Initially, academic research laid the groundwork for early G.I.S. endeavors. However, G.I.S. has since become an indispensable platform for almost every human endeavor. With advancements in web technology, cloud computing, and integration with real-time information through the Internet of Things, G.I.S. can now be seen as the planet’s nervous system.

During its early stages, computer map-making software was developed by the Harvard Laboratory for Computer Graphics. This laboratory was comprised of a talented group of professionals from various fields, including geographers, planners, and computer scientists, who contributed to the development of G.I.S. and its applications. Today, G.I.S. Day offers a range of exciting activities, whether it be teaching real-world G.I.S. applications in the classroom or conducting fieldwork to record GPS points.

✅ Geographic Information Systems Day Facts

🔖 The first airplane shot aerial pictures
Wilbur Wright was able to take the very first photographs from an aircraft while in flight.

🔖 Largest G.I.S. day
The 2013 G.I.S. Day stood out as one of the biggest events with more than 1,000 hosts and 105,000 participants.

🔖 First aerial photographs
In the past, the initial aerial pictures were captured by utilizing hot air balloons, kites, and even pigeons.

👍 Why Is Geographic Information Systems Day Important

G.I.S. technology is used in many commercial applications. G.I.S. technology is used to track natural catastrophes, predict how climate change will affect our planet, and find populations in need of aid after calamities.

G.I.S. Day brings together geographic information system users to highlight real-world applications that are making a difference in our society. It raises awareness of how GIS benefits humanity.

G.I.S. Day is a global movement that unites universities, government agencies, schools, non-profits, and G.I.S. professionals. The holiday is intended to raise G.I.S. consciousness and comprehension of the globe.

🙂 How To Observe Geographic Information Systems Day

⚡ Join the Esri community
Sign up for the Esri online network to enhance your understanding and appreciation of geographic information systems. By joining, you can collaborate with others, exchange ideas, and work together to solve G.I.S. challenges.

⚡ Go satellite watching
You can be part of the celebration by watching it through a satellite. Satellites orbit the Earth without making any noise and are used for various remote sensing purposes. If you don’t have a telescope, you can still experience it by using your phone with a satellite augmented reality app.

⚡ Thank a geography instructor
Expressing gratitude to professionals in the field is the most fitting way to honor G.I.S. Day. Professors, we sincerely appreciate the message you shared with us today.

📅 When is Geographic Information Systems Day?

Explore all 🔗 November holidays, including 🔗 Cause and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about Geographic Information Systems Day. So be sure to check back soon.