Ground Zero Aerial Imagery, September 15, 2001. New York State, Office for Technology (Copyright 2001) and EarthData International. Geography and Map Division

In collecting cartographic materials relating to the events of 9/11, the Library's Geography and Map Division is concentrating on documenting the role maps played in managing the recovery effort. Traditional surveying and mapping techniques as well as modern electronic and remote sensing technologies were employed to aid the rescue and recovery operations, including remote sensing and aerial imagery, digital orthophotography, cutting-edge laser (light detection and ranging--LIDAR) technology with the capability of producing accurate elevation data, and thermal imagery for mapping hot spots in the rubble.

These mapping initiatives directed at the federal, state, and municipal levels--sometimes in association with the private-sector--provided important geographic and cartographic resources to help officials evaluate damage, monitor the progress of recovery, and provide for the safe deployment of personnel.