GridScout™

What, no GUI?

For its primary purpose of bulk collection of MGRS coordinates, simple text output in a terminal works well. But GridScout Map™ does integrate with GISsurfer to give aerial views in your web browser. From there, you can easily access other online resources such as topographic and street-map views. Strictly speaking, however, these are not part of GridScout Map™.

Seriously, paper maps?

Going into battle dependent on vulnerable infrastructure is unwise. So yes, actual printed maps and overlays are advantageous. They work independently of power and communication grids. They’re durable, highly portable, and low-maintenance. Fancy technology has its place, but printed maps excel in the field. With GridScout Map™, you can apply the technology without the vulnerabilities.

Why MGRS coordinates?

The Military Grid Reference System is a whole-world variant of the UTM coordinate system. It’s used by NATO militaries because it’s concise, minimizes distortion, and makes for easy math. Latitude and longitude are greatly lacking in these qualities. Map vendors such as MyTopo allow you to have your maps printed with a UTM grid, and for the aforementioned reasons I suggest that you take them up on that option.

How do I get GridScout Map™?

It’s on GitHub, where you’ll find installation instructions. And it’s free!