The Stephen and Mary Birch Foundation Center for Earth Systems Analysis Research (CESAR) is a computer-based research and instruction facility administered by the Department of Geography. The purpose of the Center is to apply state-of-the-art technology in image processing, remote sensing, geographic information systems, automated cartography and numerical modeling to problems with a spatial dimension. As such, a number of Geography Department faculty are affiliated with the center. Research conducted by the CESAR is directed at both applied and fundamental problems in fields ranging from biophysical remote sensing to urban planning. This research includes computer-based map and image data processing and spatial simulation modeling as well as field experimentation.