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Glossary

A glossary of some of the most commonly used words and terms used in Mapping and Orienteering can be found below.  If you cannot find the word you are after then please email us and a member of map group will get back to you.

Cartography

The process of drawing up a map (or map-making) either on paper or computer.
Cartographic, Cartographical, Cartographer.

ISOM2000

A standard created by the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) to standardise Orienteering maps throughout the world.  More information on ISOM 2000 can be found on this website by clicking here.

Photogrametric Plot

An aerial survey is conducted where two photographs are taken of the terrain below at slight angles to each other.  Once developed these photographs are used to create a rough map showing contour levels and features viewable from the air.  This rough map is then used as a base map to help produce an Orienteering map.

Niche or Re-Entrant

A land feature comprising a small valley or large 'niche' which is represented on maps by contour lines.

Sighting Compass

A special type of compass with a fixed prism mounted in the capsule that allows the user to take accurate bearings by line of sight.  Used extensively in surveying for Orienteering maps.  The compass is held in a horizontal position in front the eye so that the bearing on the floating disc is reflected upwards and can be read by the user.  A typical sighting compass is pictured right.

Survey

Process of using a "base map" to visit an area and create a detailed map of the ground to be drawn up later as a finished complete map.
Surveyor, Surveying.