Fuentes de datos

How to Locate and Download Cartographic Data

Introduction to Cartographic Data Sources

• The video introduces the process of locating and downloading cartographic data from both official and private sources, essential for any project development.

• The primary official source mentioned is the Instituto Geográfico Nacional (IGN), which can be accessed via their website at www.ign.es.

Accessing IGN Resources

• Upon visiting the IGN homepage, users can find a wealth of information managed by this national body responsible for cartography.

• Previously, registration was required for downloads; however, this has changed, simplifying access to geographic information.

Types of Available Maps

• The IGN offers various map formats including raster maps (images resembling photographs), available in different scales such as 1:25,000 and 1:50,000.

• Mobile applications are also provided by IGN for accessing maps on devices; examples include Camino Santiago maps and basic Spain maps.

Geographic Reference Information

• Users can access reference geographic information like transportation networks and hydrology, along with municipal boundary lines.

• Notable products include orthophotos and satellite images from Sentinel 2 under the Copernicus program with a pixel resolution of 10 meters.

Topographic Maps and Vector Data

• The most relevant resources discussed are vector maps and topographic bases available in multiple scales; specifically highlighted is the National Topographic Base at a scale of 1:25,000 in shapefile format.

• This topographical base consists of numerous layers containing diverse information such as population data, transport details, hydrology, and building information from cadastre records.

Thematic Geographic Information

• An interesting thematic resource is Cartociudad which provides road network addresses across Spain derived from reference geographic data.

• It includes two main layers: one for portals/piloting points and another urban background layer representing city blocks.

Downloading Geographic Information

• Various methods exist for downloading this information; users can search using administrative divisions or specific coordinates among other options.

• For example, searching by municipality allows users to find all related cartography files covering that area effectively.

File Formats and Compression

• When selecting files like shapefiles from search results, they often appear compressed in ZIP format due to their multi-file structure necessary for proper functionality.

Data Sources for Geographic Information

Overview of File Downloads

• The discussion begins with the process of locating and downloading files, noting that there can be up to five files available for download.

• Users can easily download the desired files, which become available after extraction for use in geographic information systems (GIS).

Licensing and Usage Information

• It is important to check the licensing tab, which explains how the downloaded data can be used and outlines data policies.

• The FAQ section provides answers to common questions regarding necessary maps for specific uses.

Accessing Official Data Sources

• The Spanish Cadastre is highlighted as a key national data source; users can find information on downloading cadastral cartography in shapefile format.

• Authentication methods required include Clave PIN, permanent keys, or electronic identification certificates.

Regional Cartographic Organizations

• Each autonomous community in Spain has an organization responsible for generating large-scale official cartography; the Valencian Community's is known as "Instituto Cartográfico Valenciano."

• The catalog of downloads includes various geographic products, particularly those available in shapefile format.

Downloading Specific Geographic Data

• Users are interested in downloading official cartography at a scale of 1:5,000 without needing prior registration.

• To download specific municipal data, users must enter their email address to receive the chosen file directly.

Accessing OpenStreetMap

Introduction to OpenStreetMap

• OpenStreetMap is introduced as a primary source of freely accessible cartographic data created collaboratively by users worldwide.

Contributing to OpenStreetMap

• Participation requires user registration through a form; contributors can add new cartographic data using GPS tracks or aerial photographs.

Exporting Data from OpenStreetMap

• When accessing OpenStreetMap's export feature, users have several options but may encounter challenges with formats that are not readily usable.

Sources of Geographic Information

Overview of Data Sources

• The discussion highlights the availability of geographic data from various sources, including global datasets and localized downloads from Geo Fabric.

• Focus is placed on Europe, specifically Spain, where users can access updated files that provide detailed information relevant to the region.

• The file mentioned has been modified recently (15 hours ago), indicating that it contains current data for all of Spain.

• Users can easily download a large file (approximately 1.5 GB), which includes multiple layers of information across Spain.

• This segment concludes with an emphasis on the importance of these sources for obtaining accurate and timely geographic information.