Production and publication of maps of Antarctica serve four U.S. policy objectives. Maps are essential for research, which currently is the principal expression of U.S. interest in the region. They are essential for operations and logistics in support of research or other activities (including search and rescue). Maps provide a knowledge base for support of the range of future U.S. antarctic interests. And, by their authoritative coverage of large portions of the continent, maps serve to maintain the active and influential presence of the United States in Antarctica. Surveying and mapping comprise a variety of activities necessary for the successful operation of a multifaceted scientific and exploration effort in Antarctica. Year round data acquisition, catalog, and data dissemination activities will continue in the Scientific Committee for Antarctic Research (SCAR) Library for Geodesy and Geographic Information. Field surveys are planned as part of a continuing program to collect data suitable for future satellite mapping programs and to densify extant data for 1:50,000-scale mapping programs. These maps will provide a base to portray scientific information, such as geologic data, in a specially accurate manner for expert analysis. They will also support future expeditions with a base to design scientific investigations and data collection activities. The U.S. Geological Survey has been selected to perform the Nation's antarctic mapping because it is the designated agency for mapping of the United States and because it possesses the necessary expertise, antarctic experience (developed since 1959), and institutional continuity. A 1991 Memorandum of Agreement between the United States Geological Survey and theFoundation establishes the purpose and tasking for the antarctic mapping.
