Space Hackers - From Maps to Mars: The Evolution of GIS and Space Analytics

In this talk, we explore the evolution of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from its early days in crash location analysis to its transformative role in both Earth-based and space-based applications. Drawing from personal experiences with the development of GIS geolocation tools at NHTSA and USDOT, Marcia will illustrate how spatial analytics and the integration of time and space provide deeper insights into complex issues, such as reducing traffic collisions. She will also touch on her experiences putting GIS data in action through her nationally recognized work for the Washington State Patrol to reduce DUIs and other collisions on Washington State roadways statewide. By comparing traditional statistical methods with the power of spatial data, the talk highlights the shift towards predictive analytics in understanding patterns and trends.

The session then delves into the connection between GIS and the space data community, demonstrating how spatial analytics is applied in satellite imagery, planetary mapping, and space weather forecasting. Marcia will discuss how GIS is used to track environmental changes, monitor infrastructure, and even guide space missions, emphasizing the growing intersection of Earth and space exploration. She will also touch on how to ask powerful questions in analysis that can drive breakthroughs in gaining new insights through data. Through this journey, we’ll see how the power of spatial data continues to reshape industries and scientific endeavors, both on Earth and beyond.

Marcia Drake is a globally recognized leader in data and IT with over two decades of experience driving real-world solutions in public safety, health, and sustainability. Honored as “Data Leader of the Year 2022” and featured among CDO Magazine’s “Global Data Power Women 2023,” she has transformed industries through her expertise in GIS, traffic safety, healthcare, and more. As the Founder and CEO of Ecoheart Coaching and Consulting, Marcia continues to innovate by integrating data, coaching, and sustainability solutions. From implementing groundbreaking GIS programs to shaping nationwide safety initiatives and advising global organizations, her work exemplifies the power of data to create meaningful impact. A graduate of the Oxford University AI Programme, Marcia remains committed to solving challenges and uplifting communities worldwide.

Space Data Hackers is a community for people who love data and space. We explore datasets captured from space, share knowledge and build skills for putting data to use to solve problems for our communities, businesses and the world. We welcome all levels to join us for open discussion and talks from scheduled speakers about navigating data sets, machine learning, data analysis and cloud computing. Dive into space data with Space Data Hackers!

Who should join?
Space Data Hackers is organized by Space Apps Seattle, the team that puts on the Seattle edition of NASA’s International Space Apps Challenge hackathon. We welcome all level of participants across disciplines: coders, data scientists, artists, storytellers, designers, entrepreneurs. Bring your curiosity and passion for space based data and its possibilities to improve life on Earth… and beyond.

What will you do at events?
We will have scheduled speakers to talk about topics in space datasets, cloud computing, data analysis and machine learning. We will also devote time for participants to share and work together on their interests and projects.