Migrant boat mini challenge award: Simple and effective integrated display geo-temporal analysis of migrant boats

Abstract

We provide a description of the tools and techniques used in our analysis of the VAST 2008 Challenge dealing with mass movement of persons departing Isla Del Sue.no on boats for the United States during 2005-2007. We used visual analytics to explore migration patterns, characterize the choice and evolution of landing sites, characterize the geographical patterns of interdictions and determine the successful landing rate. Our ComVis tool, in connection with some helper applications and Google Earth, allowed us to explore geo-temporal characteristics of the data set and answer the challenge questions. The ComVis project file captures the visual analysis context and facilitates better collaboration among team members.