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Spaces and Computing

Actionable geospatial solutions require big data and diverse teams. With an open, collaborative infrastructure and powerful computing technologies, we build community among developers and problem-solvers.

A photo of people using the Tangible Landscape at the North Carolina State University Center for Geospatial Analytics

A Wide Worldview

Researchers today have access to the largest, most thorough and highest-resolution datasets ever. At the Center for Geospatial Analytics, we’re continuously refining existing methods for gathering and evaluating location-based data. By developing groundbreaking techniques and models, we think ahead of the perpetually changing landscape of spatial data collection and research applications.

To remain at the forefront of this rapidly expanding field, the Center is home to pioneering research and teaching environments supported by high-performance computing. Our leading-edge spaces and technological resources facilitate collaborative data analysis and visualization, allowing for scenario-based decision making among researchers, educators, students and a diverse array of stakeholders.

Geovisualization Lab

Our flagship facility houses state-of-the-art tools and technologies for interacting with and accurately representing spatial data collected through research, extension and teaching. Immersive virtual environments, collaborative touch-screen displays, 3-D imagery and interactive decision-making systems allow users to visualize real-world locations and scenarios. These resources help attract internationally acclaimed faculty, visiting scholars and postdoctoral researchers to the Center for Geospatial Analytics.

Computing

The Center for Geospatial Analytics uses leading technologies to gather massive datasets of location-based information. To process it all, we take advantage of a robust, secure computing infrastructure that powers our analysis of big geospatial data.

  • Advanced workstations: Powerful computers equipped with extra servers and memory suitable for long-term projects using large datasets and requiring interaction and visualization
  • Virtual computer labs: Two locations with reservable workstations capable of running data analyses using customized images
  • Virtual servers: Storage allowing researchers to host and share project results online
  • High-performance computing: Batch processing functionality accessible through faculty-initiated projects
  • Personal computers: Individual lab units available in graduate student offices and various workspaces