269-12 Update: Color Accessible USGS-PGM Digital Planetary Map Products

Session: Planetary Geologic Mapping Across the Solar System (Posters)

Presenting Author:

Authors:

Abstract:

Planetary geologic maps are critical tools for interpreting surface processes, guiding mission planning, and supporting public and educational outreach. However, the complex visual design language of geologic maps often unintentionally excludes individuals with color vision deficiencies (CVD), limiting the accessibility of these products. To further expand the cartographic and scientific impact of the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) planetary geologic maps, color and symbology testing for map users with CVD began in 2024. Initial work focused on the development of a semi-automated workflow within ArcGIS Pro to optimize geologic unit color schemes for individuals with CVD, comparing traditional manual recolorization with machine learning–assisted approaches [1]. Once this workflow was established, efforts pivoted toward documenting and streamlining the process of creating and publishing USGS digital map products in CVD-accessible forms. Key challenges were uncovered, such as tackling visual overlap among map units when too many colors were needed, balancing visual contrast for line- and point-dominant maps, and addressing how to retain interpretive clarity when color is no longer a map product’s primary visual cue. Workarounds included testing supplementary design strategies, modifying Federal Geographic Data Committee standardized symbology, identifying and choosing accessible fonts, and researching contrast-enhancing color palettes for use. In making these adaptations and improving map accessibility for a broader audience, we aim to support NASA’s goals of inclusive exploration while advancing the utility and equity of planetary map products [2]. These adaptations informed practices which are now being applied to select USGS planetary geologic maps and will be released as downloadable digital map packages with CVD-accessible shapefiles. A public data release of the color conversion workflow is also planned, and we encourage the broader planetary science community to implement, test, and expand upon our work, so that further advancements in scientific accessibility may be realized.

[1] Bogle, S.R. and Fortezzo, C.M. (2024) Improving Color Vision Accessibility Through USGS Map Recolorization. Planetary Geologic Mappers Meeting 2024, Abstract #7025.

[2] NASA. (2022) NASA 2022 Strategic Plan. Washington, DC: National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-6308

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