GRASS 6.3.0 is a "technology preview" release, the first beta on the path to GRASS 6.4-stable, and also marks the start of work on GRASS 7. As such GRASS 6.3.0 is not intended to be a stable release with ongoing support, but after five months of quality-assurance review users can be confident to use this version for their day to day work, indeed due to the open development model many already do.
23 April 2008 - This release brings hundreds of new module features, supported data formats, and language translations, as well as a number of exciting enhancements to the GIS. A prototype of the new wxPython user interface is debuted, and for the the first since its inception with a port from the VAX 11/780 in 1983, GRASS will run on a non-UNIX based platform: MS-Windows. This is currently still in an experimental state and we hope that widespread testing of 6.3.0 will mean the 6.4 release of WinGRASS will be fully functional and robust. Existing users will be happy to know that these new features do not disrupt the base GIS which remains as solid as ever and fully backwards compatible with earlier GRASS 6.0 and GRASS 6.2 releases.
Several infrastructure changes accompany this release with the project becoming a founding member of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo). This includes a new home for the website, the Wiki help system, source code repository, community add-on module repository, integrated bug tracking system, and formal membership for the project in a non-profit legal entity. We hope that these changes will guarantee that the GRASS community will be well supported and vibrant well into the future.
The Geographic Resources Analysis Support System (GRASS) is a Geographic Information System (GIS) used for spatial modeling, visualization of both raster and vector data, geospatial data management and analysis, processing of satellite and aerial imagery, and production of sophisticated presentation graphics and hardcopy maps. GRASS combines powerful raster, vector, and geospatial processing engines into a single integrated software package.
The GRASS GIS project is developed under the terms of the GNU General Public License (the GPL) by volunteers the world over. GRASS differs from many other GIS software packages used in the professional world in that it is developed and distributed by users for users, mostly on a volunteer basis, in the open, and is given away for free. Emphasis is placed on interoperability and unlimited access to data as well as on software flexibility and evolution rate. The source code is freely available allowing for immediate customization, examination of the underlying algorithms, addition of new features, and fast bug fixing.
GRASS is currently used around the world in academic and commercial settings as well as by many governmental agencies and environmental consulting companies.
See more threads and details about Glenn's AnyGeo Weblog HERE The Editor (Glenn) started the AnyGeo blog some time ago and the threads are now also mirrored here at GISuser.com - RSS feed is available to add to your favorite news reader.
Featured Events
GeoInt 2008 - Join us for the 5-year anniversary of the GEOINT SYMPOSIUM October 27-30 in Nashville, Tenn., where you'll have an unparalleled opportunity to learn, network and discover as we discuss the importance of being Mission Focused while Transitioning to the Future.
ASPRS Potomac Region GeoTech Conference - Geotech 2008 theme of "Emerging Geospatial Technologies and Applications." Technical session topics will include new data acquisition, distribution, and application technologies, each featuring presentations by well-known experts. 7&8 October in Silver Spring, MD
deCarta devCon 08 - Going Mobile: Location is the Big Deal - deCarta’s devCON’08 is a unique opportunity to get first-hand knowledge and insights from experts and leaders from the mobile wireless, personal navigation, enterprise fleet-tracking and MRM markets. October 22-24, 2008, Intercontinental, San Francisco, CA.
GITA's First Annual GIS for Oil & Gas Conference - The GIS for Oil & Gas Calgary Conference will build on the momentum from GITA’s GIS for Oil & Gas Conference held in Houston, Texas, every September. Nov. 6-7, 2008, Calgary Marriott Hotel, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
iPhone Live - November 18, San Jose, CA - iPhoneLive is the new O'Reilly conference for iPhone developers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts, focusing on both the business and development issues surrounding the iPhone platform.
Join 8,000 geographers, GIS specialists, and environmental scientists for the latest in research, policy, and applications in geography, sustainability, and GIScience during the AAG Annual Meeting in Las Vegas to be held March 22-27, 2009.