The ISPRS Geospatial Week 2023 (GSW’2023), held from September 2 to 7 in Cairo, Egypt, marked a significant milestone as it was the first conference of its kind in Africa and the Middle East. Organized by the International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, this event brought together 29 workshops focusing on cutting-edge advancements in geospatial technologies, remote sensing, and spatial information sciences.
Prof. Naser El-Sheimy, the Geospatial Week Director and General Chair from the University of Calgary, emphasized the importance of this gathering by stating, “The GSW’2023 is a platform for sharing knowledge and innovations that can drive various industries forward.” The workshops covered a wide range of topics, including the use of artificial intelligence in remote sensing, advanced data management techniques, and the integration of robotics in mapping. These discussions are particularly relevant to sectors such as urban planning, environmental monitoring, and cultural heritage preservation.
One of the workshops, titled “Smart Forests,” explored the application of remote sensing and AI in assessing and monitoring forest ecosystems. This has direct implications for industries focused on sustainability and resource management, highlighting how technology can aid in combating climate change. Another noteworthy workshop, “UAV-based mapping with imaging and LiDAR systems,” addressed the challenges and opportunities in using drones for precise mapping, which can significantly enhance efficiency in construction and infrastructure projects.
The conference showcased a remarkable response from the global community, with 172 full papers and 423 extended abstracts submitted by authors from 68 countries. This level of participation underscores the growing interest and investment in geospatial technologies. As Prof. El-Sheimy noted, “The diverse contributions reflect a vibrant field that is evolving rapidly, providing businesses and governments with valuable tools for decision-making.”
In addition to the workshops, the event also included the first-ever youth presentation forum, fostering the next generation of professionals in geospatial sciences. The involvement of younger scholars indicates a promising future for innovation in the field, suggesting that new ideas and perspectives will continue to emerge.
The proceedings from this conference will be published in “The International Archives of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences,” providing a comprehensive resource for industry professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve. The insights shared at GSW’2023 are poised to influence various sectors, paving the way for advancements that can lead to improved operational efficiencies and innovative solutions in geospatial applications.
As industries increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, the technologies and methodologies discussed at GSW’2023 will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of geospatial sciences and their applications.
