Digital mapping in structural geology — Examples from Namibia and Greece

Abstract

Many problems in geology, especially structural geology, can only be solved by detailed mapping. Presently, mapping is still mainly carried out on paper using techniques from the 19 th Century. However, tools are now available to carry out most mapping tasks on microcomputers in the field without any need of paper. This speeds up geological mapping and reduces the errors involved in the mapping process. Digital mapping also allows work in featureless areas and areas of great structural complexity that would not be possible using paper maps. We present two practical examples of the new technology of digital mapping using microcomputers, from Namibia and Greece.