Voyager Search proposes a standards-aligned, COTS (commercial off-the-shelf) metadata platform to support SDI modernization through zero trust governance, AI-driven metadata enrichment, and distributed edge processing. Their proposal integrates and standardizes metadata from fragmented, heterogeneous geospatial sources without relocating or altering the underlying data.
By deploying lightweight agents near data sources, the platform extracts, enriches, and publishes metadata to centralized catalogs. This preserves local control, while contributing to interoperable national SDIs, all governed by scalable, real-time, and standards-compliant processes.
Key Features
- AI-Augmented Metadata Generation
Uses machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) to auto-generate and enrich metadata from structured and unstructured sources. Applies metadata standards like ISO 19115 and DCAT, enabling plug-and-play interoperability. - Distributed Edge Processing
Near-source agents run at data locations (on-prem, cloud, or hybrid) to ingest and index metadata in place. Supports federated aggregation without requiring centralized data storage. - Semantic and Spatial Search
Integrates LLM-based search tools, allowing natural language queries across spatial datasets. Supports more than 2,000 data formats and services (e.g., WMS, WFS, CSW). - Zero Trust Metadata Framework
Classifies data with tags for lineage, provenance, sensitivity, and access control. Aligns with DoD-level trust and compliance models for secure and auditable access. - Real-Time Monitoring and Metadata Refresh
Automatically detects content changes and refreshes catalogs. Enables self-updating SDI portals and governance-aware pipelines. - Capacity Building and Education Integration
Partners with programs like FGDC GeoPathways for SDI training. Used in live educational settings to bridge learning and operational practice.
Benefits & Impact
- Trustworthy, Interoperable Metadata
Enables secure integration of public and private geospatial data through consistent metadata and zero-trust governance. - Scalable Across Agencies and Jurisdictions
Supports federated data governance while enabling local autonomy and flexible deployment. - Future-Ready AI Integration
Facilitates semantic discovery, automation, and integration with AI workflows. - Low Barrier to Adoption
Deployed via COTS software and proven in use by agencies like NGA, USDA FAS, and state DOTs. - Alignment with OGC, FGDC, and UN-GGIM Objectives
Directly addresses SDI modernization goals with operational, standards-based tooling.
Use Cases
- National SDI development
- Sensitive data access and security
- Geospatial portals and catalogs
- Earth observation and remote sensing
- Metadata governance and compliance
- SDI training and workforce development