Geomob

This episode features Rhiannon Price and Bill Greer discussing the innovative Common Space initiative, aimed at democratizing access to high-resolution satellite imagery. They explore the challenges of data access, licensing, and governance in geospatial technology, and how their project seeks to address these issues to benefit humanitarian, environmental, and community efforts. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

This week, Steven and Dennis Bauszus, principal software engineer at Geolytix, discuss the UK’s bid to host FOSS4G 2027 in Bristol and the significant work required to deliver the global open geospatial conference. With their letter of intent submitted and a full proposal due in March, the team must outline detailed plans covering finances, programming, hybrid streaming, accessibility, diversity, and logistics for an 800-person, multi-track event. They emphasize the importance of volunteers, employer support, sponsorship, and travel grants to ensure global participation, as well as a strong code of conduct and inclusive approach. Bristol is positioned as both a strong geospatial hub and an active destination for international attendees, with the event likely planned for July 2027. The episode closes with excitement about promoting the bid at FOSS4G 2026 in Hiroshima and an open call for the community to get involved. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Ed welcomes Jeremy Morley as the new co-host of the Geomob podcast. They discuss Jeremy's extensive background in geospatial sciences, including his academic journey and experiences in remote sensing and Earth observation. The conversation explores the evolution of geospatial technology, the impact of community mapping through OpenStreetMap, and the challenges of data quality. Jeremy shares insights from his time at Ordnance Survey and the importance of connecting with startups through Geovation. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of geospatial technology, particularly in relation to AI. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

In this episode of the GeoMob podcast, Dr. Katy Whitaker discusses the role of aerial imagery in archaeology, and in particular the work of Historic England. With over six million aerial photographs in their archive, Historic England utilizes aerial surveys to map archaeological features across the UK. The conversation covers the importance of maintaining these archives, the challenges of accuracy in aerial photography, and the innovative tools like the Aerial Photo Explorer that make this data accessible to the public. Additionally, the impact of climate change on archaeological sites and the need for informed decision-making in heritage preservation are highlighted. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Ed and Steven discuss the recent Geomob London event, highlighting its success and the packed attendance. They delve into the various talks presented, focusing on themes such as the challenges and innovations in the geospatial industry, the importance of leadership skills, and the need for new technologies to manage the increasing volume of data. The conversation also touches on community engagement through projects and the recognition of emerging talent in the field. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Ed interviews Anton Wenemoser about CoMaps, an open-source mapping application. Anton shares the journey of CoMaps, its split from Organic Maps, and its focus on user-friendly, offline mapping using OpenStreetMap data. They discuss the challenges and goals of CoMaps, including its community-driven approach and the importance of critical mass for OpenStreetMap contributions. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

In this episode, Khalid, the Chief Scientist at Sensat, discusses the evolution of the company from a data-collection organisation to a software company focused on creating visual digital twins for the infrastructure industry. He explains the concept of digital twins, the role of Sensat Labs in fostering innovation, and the challenges of technology adoption in the industry. Khalid also shares insights on the skills needed for success at Sensat, emphasising the importance of curiosity and adaptability in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Ed and Steven discuss the intersection of AI and mapping, exploring how AI tools can assist in creating various types of maps, including political atlases and maps of social issues like inequality and gun crime. They reflect on the challenges and successes of using AI for coding and data processing, the importance of documentation, and the evolving landscape of open-source software in the age of AI. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Steven interviews Bojan Šavrič, a senior software development engineer at Esri, who specializes in map projections. They discuss the complexities of map projections, the importance of selecting the right one based on the map's purpose, and delve into the Equal Earth projection, which aims to provide a more accurate representation of the world. The conversation also touches on the campaign 'Correct the Map' initiated by the African Union, advocating for the use of the Equal Earth projection to better represent Africa on world maps. Bojan shares insights into the future of projections and ongoing projects at Esri, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of projections in the field of cartography. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

In the final episode of the Geomob podcast for 2025, hosts Ed and Steven reflect on the past year, discuss the evolving role of AI in geocoding and data maintenance, and recap recent Geomob events in Berlin and Barcelona. They explore innovations in cycling infrastructure, the importance of citizen science, and the challenges posed by GPS technology. The conversation highlights the advancements in geospatial technology and the exciting future ahead in 2026.Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Merry Christmas! In this festive Geomob podcast, the co-hosts reflect on the past year, celebrating achievements within the geospatial community, discussing highlights from various events, and sharing personal triumphs. They also explore gift ideas for geo enthusiasts and set goals for the podcast in the coming year, emphasizing the importance of emerging voices in the industry and the need for honest conversations about the future of geospatial technology, particularly in relation to AI and sustainability. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

New Geomob host Denise discusses the recently released AGI Foresight Report with Richard Flemmings, CEO of Map Impact. They explore the significance of the report, its findings, and the reflections from the AGI conference. Key themes include the evolution of geospatial technology, the importance of skills development, and the global relevance of the report's insights. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration within the geospatial community and invites listeners to engage with the report's recommendations.Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

The conversation provides a detailed review of the FOSS4G:UK 2025 conference, highlighting its significance as a return to in-person events after a long hiatus. Alastair discusses the organisation, positive feedback, and the engaging talks and workshops that took place. He emphasises the importance of community involvement and the successful logistics of the event, as well as the insights shared by keynote speakers. The conversation concludes with reflections on the OSGeo:UK AGM and potential future FOSS4G:UK events. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Our guest is Dirk Voets, organizer of Geomob Netherlands, which started in 2024. Dirk looks back on the progress since then. We discuss the Dutch geospatial scene generally, and look forward to the upcoming January event (rescheduled from December). The conversation explores the importance of community in the geospatial field, emphasizing the value of sharing experiences and learning from failures. Dirk Voets discusses the role of Geomob in connecting professionals and fostering a supportive environment for growth and collaboration. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

In this episode of the Geomob podcast, Alastair speaks with Freddie Hunter from Forest Research about the innovative mapping of Trees Outside Woodlands across England. They discuss the importance of this data set for ecological monitoring, the methodologies used for data processing, and the various applications of the data in tree planting and carbon assessment. Freddie also shares insights into quality assessment and the plans for future updates to the data. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Ed's guest is Felix Palmer, introducing the A5 discrete global grid system. The conversation explores the intriguing concept of tiling pentagons, revealing that while it may seem impossible, it can be achieved by altering the angles of the vertices. The discussion also delves into the implications of projections from geometric shapes like the icosahedron to the sphere, highlighting how these projections can warp angles yet still maintain surface coverage.Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.

Alastair hosts this special, listener-suggested episode by introducing the topic of lost ponds: how to find them and why they matter. Darren Tansley of the Essex Wildlife Trust then joins Alastair to discuss the project to map and restore these lost ponds across the UK. They cover the surprising scale of habitat loss, the methodology used by citizen scientists relying on historical and modern maps, and the ecological importance of ponds for species like the Turtle Dove and beneficial insects. The discussion also reflects on the essential work with farm clusters, the role of geospatial data in local nature strategy, and the potential economic benefits that pond restoration could bring to modern agriculture. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.  

Ed and Steven recap the recent GeomobLON event, discussing the turnout, speaker highlights, and the overall atmosphere. They reflect on the challenges of organizing free events, the importance of geospatial data in policy-making, and the diverse range of topics covered by speakers. The conversation also touches on upcoming events in various cities and the need for community engagement. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.    

In this episode of the podcast, host Steven welcomes back James Cheshire, a professor of geographic information and cartography at UCL, to discuss his latest book, 'The Library of Lost Maps.' The conversation explores the evolution of cartography, the significance of thematic maps, and the historical context of mapping practices. Cheshire shares insights into the stories behind various maps and mapmakers, including George Greenough and the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, while also addressing the darker uses of maps in shaping ideologies during the rise of fascism. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.  

In this episode of the Geomob podcast, Steven speaks with James Norris, the head of International Affairs at Ordnance Survey, about the evolving role of national mapping agencies in a digital world. They discuss the significance of the Cambridge Conference, the changing landscape of geospatial data, the importance of trust in mapping, and the impact of technology on the future of mapping. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration, innovation, and a focus on people in the geospatial field. Show notes on the Geomob website, where you can also learn more about Geomob events and sign up for our monthly newsletter.