Geoportals as Sources of Information About the Territory

The object of the article are popular geoportals (Yandex Maps, Google maps, 2GIS) as terrain models. The definition of geoportals and their structure and functions are described. It is noted that due to the high rate of development of the structure and content of geoportals, their functional capabilities and properties as an information resource do not have a sufficient scientific and methodological description. The content, functionality, and semiotics of geoportals are described. Special features of transmitting positional and attribute characteristics of natural and economic objects are noted; the significance of the main methods of automatic collection of information about the territory is revealed; five systems of conventional signs used in geoportals to create an image of the territory are identified and described. Similarities and differences of geoportals with traditional spatial models-topographic plans, geographic and thematic maps and plans are considered. The role of users in shaping the content, structure, and functional capabilities of geoportals is shown. Possible directions of development of geoportals sources as sources of terrain data are discussed.