Introduction
The Southeast Asian Topographic Map Database contains rich map collections that nearly cover the entire Mainland Southeast Asia. These maps, often having a large scale and containing detailed geographic features, are very helpful to those who are doing their research in Southeast Asian Countries. Among these map collections, some are rather rare, for example, the old Myanmar topographic maps, which were originated by British Colonial Government, but revised by Japanese Military. The brief catalogue of the Southeast Asian Topographic Maps is listed as follows:
| Country | Sheets | Scale | Publication date | Catalogue Status |
| Laos | 109 | 1:100,000 | 1970-1980 | Finished |
| Vietnam | 592 | 1:50,000 | 1976-1980 | Finished |
| Cambodia | 289 | 1:50,000 | 1976-1980 | Finished |
| Myanmar | 730 | 1:50,000 | Around 1890 | In process |
| Thailand | 48 | 1:250,000 | 1954-1967 | In process |
| Thailand | 440 | 1:50,000 | 1950-1954 | In process |
Map Catalogue
The Dublin Core metadata standard was used to document these map sheets, as the Dublin Core is a standard for cross-domain information resource description. The simplicity and flexibility of Dublin Core also reduce the cost of cataloguing these large volume collections. The metadata management system is conducted using the open source object-relational database management system - PostgreSQL/PostGIS. The global map system (Minnesota Mapserver plus 1:1,000,000 Global Vector Map Level 0) facilitates online browsing the area of interest by users, thus help them to easily locate their interested map sheets before contacting the administrator of this map database for their map request.
In addition, the topographic map database was also registered as a remote database node of National Geospatial Data Clearinghouse. This was achieved by a progressive development over the functionality of the Z39.50 Software - Isite/GEO package. Accessing the FGDC Geo-Gateway, typing a keyword - [laos] and selecting the spatial data server - [University of Kyoto University - Southeast Asain Topographic Maps], and you will find how our database (Dublin Core metadata standards and SQL database platform) are completely compliant with the existing geospatial gateway facilites (FGDC CSDGM Metadata standard plus Z39.50 Protocol).
Database Guideline
Basically, those who are teaching in universities or doing academic research can apply for maps from this topographic database without charge of fee. Click for more details.
Regarding the map application, please understand the application procedure firstly. The application form could be downloaded for your map requests. Any requirements, please contact phone call 81-75-753-7300 or fax number 81-75-753-7350.
| Copyright © 2004 CSEAS, Kyoto University. All rights reserved. |
