Vol. 59 No. 1 (265) (2025)

Geography

  • Geography

    ANNUAL UPDATE OF TOPOGRAPHICAL MAPS OF THE STATE SCALE SERIES OF THE RA BASED ON HIGH-RESOLUTION SATELLITE IMAGES

    Hovsep S. Petrosyan, Paruyr S. Efendyan, Fred F. Akhoyan, Vahan M. Manukyan, Valeri A. Aleksanyan
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    Abstract

    This study focuses on the annual updating of the state scale series topographic maps of the Republic of Armenia using high-resolution satellite imagery for photogrammetric processing. It outlines methods for creating planimetric and elevation reference points for ground control, ensuring their alignment with the National Geodetic System of Armenia. The research explores various geodetic techniques, including satellite-based positioning, second-order polygonometry, high-precision theodolite traverses, and trigonometric leveling for elevation determination. The accuracy of coordinate and elevation measurements obtained through these methods is assessed. Additionally, a standardized data processing format for control points is proposed to streamline and enhance the efficiency of office-based photogrammetric work. A list of materials that must be submitted upon completion of the work is provided.

    References
  • Geography

    GEOMORPHOLOGICAL COMPOSITION OF NUMBER AREAS OF ALPINE LAKES IN ARMENIA

    Vladimir R. Boynagryan
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    Abstract

    The results of field studies of the relief and relief-forming processes in the basins of four alpine lakes of Armenia (Kari, Umroy, Akna, and Sev) are presented. It has been established that the catchment basins of all these lakes are characterized by generally similar relief and approximately the same exogenous relief-forming processes. Some difference is typical for the Lake Sev basin due to its slightly lower absolute heights. From the exogenous processes of relief formation in the Lake Kari basin can be noted as a weak solifluction in the form of sod creeping onto boulders on the surface of the watershed plateau and nivation at the sites of snowbanks formation. Solifluction is most clearly manifested on the slopes of the cinder cones in the Lake Akna basin, which is related to the nature of the rocks composing these cones. Here, nivation easily forms niches of the same name in places where snowbanks form. For the Lake Sev basin the processes of congelifluction (displacement of chingils) on the slopes of lava flows are of predominant importance. The nature of the moraine relief of the Lake Umroy basin is a good indicator of identifying the stages of retreat of the Würm glacier.

    References
  • Geography

    ASSESSMENT OF ECOSYSTEM SERVICES IN THE ARDVI VILLAGE

    Mari V. Chakryan, Gorik D. Avetisyan, Arsen T. Grigoryan, Artak S. Piloyan
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    Abstract

    The importance of assessing ecosystem services (ES) via case study of Ardvi settlement stems from an unprecedented increase in global, regional, and local interest towards the evaluation and valuation of various ecosystem services. A comprehensive assessment and valuation of the diverse and numerous ES (provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting) in Armenia's ecosystems is essential for sustainable resource management, the latter's multifunctional use, and effective conservation. The assessment of ecosystem services is a crucial step in developing the ES concept for decision-making and management. The need for this assessment of ES by the example of the Ardvi Village is also driven by targeted actions initiated since 2011 by the government and various organizations in Armenia. These actions aim to demonstrate the value of ES for a small village and illustrate how this value can be integrated into spatial and community development planning.

    References
  • Geography

    THE NATURE OF SURFACE FRIABLE SEDIMENTS AND MODERN EXOGENOUS PROCESSES OF THE DILIJAN BASIN (the basin of the middle course of the Aghstev River, Armenia)

    Vladimir R. Boynagryan, Anzhela A. Ayriyants
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    Abstract

    The granulometric, mineralogical, chemical, and spectral compositions of eluvium, deluvium, and defluction formations, as well as the physico-mechanical properties of landslide soils, have been determined, which makes it possible to distinguish to a certain extent between different genetic types of loose accumulations and the conditions of their formation. According to the topographic map on a scale of 1:25 000, the orders of the main tributaries of the Aghstev River are determined – all of them have the fourth order. Of the exogenous processes, landslides and partial demolition of weathered loose material from the slopes during heavy rains are the most dangerous for the basin. The complex geological and geomorphological structure of the Dilijan basin contributes to its instability in the future and increases the risk of activation of dangerous natural processes: a variety of rocks that become exposed during weathering, as well as clays of different ages and origins, which facilitate the formation of new landslides; the presence of faults of different ranks, contributing to the instability of rocks on the steep slopes of the basin; large falls in the channels of the main tributaries of the Aghstev River and numerous ravines, in which strong winds mudflows may form in heavy rains; the geographical location of the basin itself is within an intensely differentiated arch-block zone.

    References
  • Geography

    METHODOLOGY FOR OBTAINING CROSS-SECTIONAL ROAD SURFACE PROFILES USING LASER SCANNING DATA

    Erik M. Hovsepyan
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    Abstract

    Road infrastructure is critical to the economy, providing mobility for people and cargo, and contributing to economic growth. Modern technologies, particularly 3D laser scanning, play a significant role in the monitoring, evaluation, and operation of infrastructure. As part of this study, the AU20 laser scanning system was used to obtain transverse road surface profiles on a certain section of the Yerevan Tbilisi Highway. The scan data was processed in the ArmRef02 coordinate system. The main objectives of the survey are:

    •    develop a methodology to automatically separate the road surface from the 3D point cloud.

    •    Identify the pivotal and central axes of the path through spatial analysis.

    •    Compare the resulting profiles with the technical norms and suggest possible improvements.

    The results showed that existing technical abnormalities have a negative impact on drainage efficiency and traffic safety. Adherence to local and international regulatory standards can contribute to improved road operation and sustainable development of transport networks.

    References
  • Geography

    THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC GEOGRAPHY IN THE RA. KEY DIRECTIONS AND OUTCOMES

    Aksel H. Potosyan
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    Abstract

    Geographical research plays a crucial role in the economic development of countries and serves as an essential tool for territorial planning and organization. Over the past decades, comprehensive socio-economic and geographical studies have been conducted in Armenia to align with the country's economic development needs. These studies have identified the geographical characteristics of Armenia's natural environment and resources, population and settlements, settlement patterns, economic distribution, and territorial organization. They have played a direct role in shaping various economic programs, resource management, production distribution, and territorial development processes in the Republic of Armenia. This article aims to summarize the key directions of socio-economic and geographical research conducted in Armenia over recent decades and to highlight their main findings.

    References
  • Geography

    ECOLOGICAL TRAILS AS A MEANS OF ECOLOGICAL EDUCATION FOR FUTURE TOURISM PROFESSIONALS

    Meri V. Vardanyan
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    Abstract

    The article discusses the essence of ecological trails, presenting the definitions found in the professional literature. The main goals of the creation and the usage of ecological trails are discussed. The criteria for classifying ecological trails and the features of their creation are briefly presented. The article also highlights the educational significance of ecological trails, emphasizing their role in acquiring professional knowledge and enhancing students' skills particularly for tourism department students. As a case study, the ecological trail at Yerevan Botanical Garden is analyzed to demonstrate its role in developing ecological competence of future tourism professionals. The article further proposes to organize an extracurricular lesson at Yerevan Botanical Garden aimed at developing students' professional skills.

    References