GIS Day 2026 at MSU. Carl Churchill of The Wall Street Journal speaks on mapping weather, climate, and land in modern journalism, Thursday, November 5, 12:15 to 1:20 pm, Hager Auditorium, Museum of the Rockies. Free and open to the public. GIS Day 2026 details and flyer
What can the GCF do for you?
The Geospatial Core Facility (GCF; RRID:SCR_026332) at Montana State University (MSU) is a university-wide resource providing advanced geospatial technologies, data analysis, and expertise to support interdisciplinary research. Operated under the Office of Research, the GCF collaborates with faculty, staff, and students across multiple disciplines to tackle complex spatial challenges using cutting-edge geospatial tools.
The facility offers access to specialized software, high-performance computing, and state-of-the-art hardware, including UAV-based remote sensing systems, high-precision GNSS units, and mobile GIS platforms. Researchers can utilize high-resolution satellite imagery, LiDAR datasets, and spatial modeling tools to advance projects in environmental science, agriculture, hydrology, urban planning, and beyond.
Beyond research support, the GCF is dedicated to training the next generation of geospatial professionals through hands-on learning, workshops, and expert consultations. Researchers and students benefit from specialized guidance, ensuring high-quality spatial data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
The GCF also serves as a collaborative hub, bringing together MSU researchers, government agencies, and industry partners to drive innovation in geospatial science and strengthen the broader research community.
Services
- Geospatial Surveying & Mapping
Field data collection with UAV, LiDAR, and GNSS systems, from sub-meter to centimeter accuracy. - Cartography & Data Visualization
Static and interactive maps, applications, dashboards, and graphics tailored to your audience. - Geospatial Data Analysis
Spatial modeling, terrain analysis, spatial statistics, satellite and aerial image processing, geodatabase hosting, and GIS programming support.
Equipment and computing details are on the Services and Technology page.
Acknowledging the GCF
Acknowledgment of core facility services and instruments supported by Montana State University are required in publications. Learn more about how to acknowledge the Geospatial Core Facility in your publication here.
