Defense Geospatial Information Agency "Division General Constantin Barozzi"

Brief History of the Defense Geospatial Information Agency "Division General Constantin Barozzi"

 

1859 The First Scientific Astronomical Determination in Romania
The first documented scientific astronomical determination in Romania was carried out by Romanian geodetic officers to create the Map of Southern Romania, at a scale of 1:28,000, under the command of Austrian Marshal De Fligelly. The first point whose astronomical latitude was determined on the ground was Movila lui David, from the Slobozia geodetic base.

November 12, 1859 High Order of the Day No. 83
By High Order of the Day No. 83 "to the entire armed force of Romania in the United Principalities," issued by Prince Alexandru Ioan Cuza, the "General Staff Corps" was established. According to Article 7, letter a), it included a specialized structure to carry out "All that pertains to topographic, geodetic, and statistical works, as well as the drafting and execution of such plans and the application of these works to create the cadastral map of the United Principalities."

December 14, 1859 First Military Topogeodesy Structure
By Order of the Day No. 123, the "2nd Section of the General Staff Corps" was established, the first specialized structure to fulfill the missions of a military topographic (topogeodesic) institution, under the command of Second Lieutenant G. Slăniceanu.

October 9, 1862
Lieutenant N. Dona was appointed head of the 2nd Section of the General Staff Corps.

June 1863 Map of the United Romanian Principalities
The "Map of the United Romanian Principalities," drawn by Captain Hadji and Lieutenant P. Gramont at a scale of 1:833,000, was printed (lithographed). It included the main localities, postal and telegraph stations, roads, and relief represented by hatching.

1864 Updating the Map of Southern Romania
The "Map of Southern Romania" or "Cuza's Map," also known as "Marshal De Fligely's Map," created between 1855-1857 at the order of Prince Barbu Știrbei by officers of the Engineering Office of Wallachia with the support of the Austrian military geographical mission led by Marshal De Fligely, was updated at a scale of 1:57,600. This map was the first to use the name Romania on a Romanian map and was considered a cartographic masterpiece of the time. The original field maps were preserved and displayed at the Geographic Institute in Vienna.

1864 Determinations on the Shape and Dimensions of the Earth
General C. I. Brătianu, General G. Iannescu, Colonel C. Barozzi, and Lieutenant Colonel C. Căpităneanu participated in determinations on the "shape and dimensions of the Earth by measuring giant arcs (meridian and parallel) to link geodetic triangulations from different countries," under the aegis of a European geodetic association.

June 11, 1868 Law for the Organization of the Armed Power in Romania
The "Law for the Organization of the Armed Power in Romania," approved by the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate and published in the Military Monitor on June 22, 1868, was promulgated. It stipulated that: "The General Staff and the General Staff Corps constitute the cadres of large units and will gradually form, as needed, the Scientific War Depot attached to the Ministry of War."

January 16, 1870 Establishment of the "Scientific War Depot"
By High Decision No. 53, the internal service regulation of the Ministry of War was issued, mentioning the establishment of the "Scientific War Depot," "directly attached under the orders of the minister," organized into two offices: the first named "Map of Romania - Interior Topographic Works, Library, Lithography, and Army Printing Office" and the second named "Historical Works, Military Statistics, Regiment Works, and the Military Monitor Office."

1870 Map of the Danube Delta
Captain C. Poenaru participated in the "European Danube Commission" works, surveying the course of the Danube from Brăila to Sulina, resulting in the "Map of the Danube Delta."

1870 Colonel C. Barozzi
Colonel C. Barozzi was appointed head of the War Depot.

1872 First Concept for Creating the Topographic Map of the Country at a Scale of 1:20,000
The first concept for creating the topographic map of the country at a scale of 1:20,000 was finalized. It was implemented starting in 1873 through geodetic works in Moldova.

1873 First Romanian Geodetic Concept
The first Romanian atlas of conventional signs, called the "Topographic Atlas," was edited by officers of the War Depot. Starting this year, the "Bessel reference ellipsoid," determined in 1841, was adopted in our country.

November 17, 1874 "Map of the Three Constantines"
The first concept for creating the topographic map of the country at a scale of 1:20,000 was supported by Colonel C. Barozzi's report No. 129, addressed to the Minister of War. Receiving a favorable resolution, this concept would provide the justification for creating the map known as the "Map of the Three Constantines" (C. Barozzi - the founder, C. Căpităneanu - the astronomer and geodesist, and C. Brătianu - the cartographer).

1874 Linking Iași to the Origin of Longitudes
The longitude difference between the cities of Iași (with the pillar located near the Administrative Palace) and Cernăuți was determined by Captain C. Căpităneanu and Austrian astronomer A. Kühnert to link Iași, through Cernăuți, to Paris, whose meridian was considered the origin of longitudes. Constantin Căpităneanu published the results of the observations made in 1874 in the "Memoir on Practical Works Related to Determining the Longitude Difference between Iași and Cernăuți" in 1875. These observations were republished in 1881 in a joint work by C. Căpităneanu and A. Kühnert, under the authority of the War Depot.

1875-1876 Topographic Survey Works in Moldova
Topographic survey fieldwork in Moldova and triangulation works in southern Bessarabia and Dobrogea were carried out until 1876, when they were interrupted due to the mobilization of the army for the Romanian War of Independence. These works continued after the war, between 1880-1884 in Dobrogea for the 1:10,000 scale map and between 1884-1892 in Moldova for the 1:20,000 scale map.

April 27 - May 9, 1877 Topographic Section of the General Headquarters
In the organization of the General Headquarters at the beginning of the War of Independence (1877-1878), the "Topographic Section" appeared under the leadership of Colonel N. Dona, and the head of the War Depot, Colonel C. Barozzi, was appointed deputy chief of the General Staff and responsible for using photography to gather battlefield information.

1877-1878 "Astronomical Works Carried Out in Romania in 1877"
Captain C. Căpităneanu and Russian Captain A. Samocinikov determined the longitude differences between Galați and Bucharest, Galați and Iași, Chișinău and Iași, as well as the latitude of some points in Bucharest, Galați, and Iași. These measurements and results were published under the coordination of Russian General Lebedev in the work "The Russo-Turkish War 1877-1878," in chapter 48, titled "Astronomical Works Carried Out in Romania in 1877," and later, in 1892, in French.

1880-1883 Triangulation Works for the Dobrogea Area Triangulation works for the Dobrogea area, interrupted during the War of Independence, were carried out to create the 1:10,000 scale map. The actual map was surveyed with a plane table at a scale of 1:10,000 on 736 square topographic sections (map sheets), each with a side of 50 cm (25 sq km on the ground), and the elevations of the geodetic points were calculated by trigonometric leveling relative to the Black Sea level.

1873-1892 Triangulation Works for the Moldova Area
Triangulation works for the Moldova area began and continued after the War of Independence, only with Romanian specialists from the War Depot. The Map of Moldova is the first map made according to a Romanian concept, known in history as the "Map of the Three Constantines." The Cassini projection was adopted for this map.

September 29, 1882 "3rd Section" of the General Staff
By High Decree No. 2945, the General Staff of the Army was established, with topographic responsibilities by transforming the War Depot into the "3rd Section" of the General Staff. According to the "Law on General Staff Service," approved by High Decree No. 809 of March 6, 1883, the Section operated with three services: "Geodesy and Astronomy Service," "Topography, Photography, Cartography, and Library Service," and "Map Reproduction, Lithography, Photolithography, and Engraving Service."

1890 "Portable Atlas of Conventional Signs"
The "Portable Atlas of Conventional Signs, adapted for the country's 1:20,000 scale map and military surveys" was developed.

1892 The Second Romanian Military Geodetic Concept
The second Romanian military geodetic concept was established through the memorandum "The Need to Create the Map of Wallachia," presented by General C. I. Brătianu at the annual session of the Royal Romanian Geographical Society. This concept was fully applied until 1917 and, with some improvements, until 1930. The characteristics of this concept are: the breakpoints of the triangulation bases should be marked on the ground with fixed markers; the determination of a fundamental astronomical point, where the Military Astronomical Observatory should be built; the use of the Clarke reference ellipsoid, determined in 1880; the use of the Bonne equal-area conic projection, centered at the intersection of the 45° parallel with the meridian of the Military Astronomical Observatory; the horizontal angles of first-order triangulation points should be determined by the Schreiber method, and those of second and third-order triangulation points should be determined by the horizon tour method; the execution of precision leveling using the average level of the Black Sea.

1894 Construction of the Military Astronomical Observatory. Topographic Plan of the Capital
The construction of the Military Astronomical Observatory began. The War Depot accepted the offer of the City Hall of Bucharest to create the topographic plan of the Capital (realized in three versions: the parcel plan at a scale of 1:500, the general topographic plan at a scale of 1:5,000, and the geographic plan at a scale of 1:10,000), which included the construction of this observatory on a plot of land donated exclusively for this purpose, at 68 Piscului Street, necessary for orienting the triangulation network of the plan.

May 5, 1895 Geographic and Topographic Service of the Army. Geographic Institute of the Army
By the "Law on General Staff Service," promulgated by High Order No. 2358, the general staff service was divided into three divisions: the General Staff Service of the Army, the "Geographic and Topographic Service of the Army," and the General Staff Service of the Great Commands. This law stipulated that the second service (the Geographic and Topographic Service of the Army) "is executed by officers with special knowledge of geodesy and topography and constitutes the Geographic Institute of the Army." Thus, the War Depot was transformed into the Geographic Institute of the Army, with Brigadier General C. I. Brătianu as its first director.

October 12, 1895 Inauguration of the Military Astronomical Observatory
The Military Astronomical Observatory was inaugurated. The observatory's construction included a "meridian pavilion" consisting of two workrooms, each with an observation pillar (West Pillar and East Pillar) for gravimetric determinations and instrument and astronomical apparatus constants. The West Pillar was designed as the "fundamental astronomical point," named "Dealul Piscului." The observatory also had an "azimuthal pavilion" for determining the astronomical azimuth origin of the geodetic network.

1895 Fundamental Astronomical Point
The Military Astronomical Observatory was equipped with two meridian circles, two sidereal pendulums with an electric interrupter every second, two secondary dials, two complete chronograph stations, etc. To become the Fundamental Astronomical Point, it was necessary to astronomically determine, with great precision, the latitude and longitude of the Observatory, as well as an astronomical azimuth from it to a geodetic point in the state triangulation network. Major T. Râmniceanu and Captain R. Toroceanu began determining the astronomical latitude of the Military Astronomical Observatory. Measurements were determined successively in 1898 and 1899, using the Gauthier meridian circle and obtaining the average value of 44°24'34'',20±0'',04.

1895-1898 Topographic Plan of Bucharest. Zero Level of the Black Sea
The astronomical-geodetic works for creating the Bucharest plan were carried out by the Military Astronomical Observatory in collaboration with other specialized structures of the 3rd Section of the General Staff and later of the Geographic Institute of the Army. For the elevation of the topographic plan, the zero level of the Black Sea was determined, during which two tide gauges were installed in the port of Constanța, with continuous observations until 1906. Observations continued to determine the average level of the Black Sea - the fundamental zero level - until 1916 when they were interrupted due to the war and the destruction of the tide gauges by German-Bulgarian troops.
 

1898 Fundamental Azimuth of the Country
The direct determination of the astronomical azimuth on the side of the Military Astronomical Observatory - Foișorul de Foc has been executed. This azimuth was used for orienting the topographic map of the city of Bucharest and will constitute the "fundamental azimuth of the country." In the same year, the foundations were laid for high-order leveling for the entire country by installing a tide gauge in the port of Constanța. The Military Astronomical Observatory continued astronomical determinations to deduce the latitude of new geodetic points, and until 1912, astronomical azimuth determinations were executed. To link these astronomical determinations, the longitude differences between the Military Astronomical Observatory and astronomical observatories from other countries, adopted as fundamental at the international level, were calculated.

1899 The Paris Universal Exhibition.
The Grand Prize and Three Gold Medals The Universal Exhibition in Paris took place, where the Army Geographic Institute participated with a cartographic products stand, composed of maps, topographic plans (including the topographic plan of the city of Bucharest at a scale of 1:5,000), atlases of conventional signs, and map albums. The international jury awarded the delegation of Romania (the Army Geographic Institute) the Grand Prize and three gold medals (to the Minister of War - General I. Lahovari, the senior director of the institute - General C. I. Brătianu, and the technical director of the institute - Colonel G. Iannescu) and a silver medal to the head of the Reproduction Section of the institute - Colonel I. Cantea). One of the most appreciated works was the "map at a scale of 1:50,000 - Sinaia sheet," with the relief represented by color tints. Also, on the occasion of the exhibition, the French government decorated Major T. Râmniceanu, the head of astronomical works within the Army Geographic Institute, with the "Legion of Honor."

1900 Bucharest - A Central Point in Longitude Determinations in the International Polygon
The difference in longitude between Bucharest and Potsdam was determined by a team from Romania, consisting of Major T. Râmniceanu and Captain R. Toroceanu, and a team from Germany, consisting of Professors Dr. T. Albrecht and G. Borass. The International Association of Geodesy established that Bucharest would be a central point in the longitude determinations carried out in the Potsdam-Paris-Pulkovo international polygon. On this occasion, specialists from the two teams also determined the gravity value in the Vienna 1900 gravimetric system. Subsequently, also in 1900, the difference in astronomical longitude in relation to the Greenwich prime meridian was calculated.

1905 C. Barozzi - Honorary Member of the Romanian Academy
Division General C. Barozzi was elected an honorary member of the Romanian Academy.

April 30, 1905

By High Decree no. 2495, the Army Geographic Institute came under the direct subordination of the Minister of War, as General C. I. Brătianu, the institute's director, had a higher rank than the Chief of the General Staff. This subordination lasted until June 19, 1907, according to High Decree no. 2700, when General C. I. Brătianu [Chiefs of the Military Topographic Directorate] resigned, and the Army Geographic Institute returned to the subordination of the Chief of the General Staff.

1906 Determining the Origin Elevation of Bucharest
The successive determinations for leveling the topographic plan of the city of Bucharest were completed. After the war and the reinstallation of tide gauges at the fundamental point in Constanța, the zero level from the Black Sea was transmitted by geometric leveling to the benchmark at Bucharest's North Station and used to determine the origin elevation of Bucharest, having a value of 82.1981 meters.

1906-1907
Determining the 47°30' Parallel Arc The Military Astronomical Observatory in Bucharest participated in determining the 47°30' parallel arc between Brest and Astrakhan.

March 23, 1907

The Military Geography Section The Military Geography Section was established within the Romanian Geographical Society, under the leadership of General C. I. Brătianu, director of the Army Geographic Institute.

1909
The World Map at a Scale of 1:1,000,000 An international committee in London established the project for creating the "World Map at a scale of 1:1,000,000," consisting of 1122 map sheets. The Army Geographic Institute was tasked with creating 5 map sheets covering the territory of Romania. The map sheets had 6° of longitude and 4° of latitude, with the Greenwich meridian considered the prime meridian.

February 9, 1910 The Army Geographic Service.
The First Map Sheet of the World Map By High Decree no. 465, a new Regulation was approved, transforming the Army Geographic Institute into the "Army Geographic Service." In addition to the geographical support missions of the Army, article 1 assigned it the mission of "preparing and publishing cartographic works that interest public instruction, public services, and even private needs." The Army Geographic Service was organized into 4 sections: "Geodesy and Astronomy Section," "Topographic Section," "Cartographic and Reproduction Section," and "Administrative Section," and led by General G. Iannescu. In the same year, the first map sheet of the World Map at a scale of 1:1,000,000 was completed for the national territory in a polyconic projection.

1913 Maps for the Entire Theater of Operations in the Second Balkan War
During the campaign of the Second Balkan War, designated personnel from the Army Geographic Service constituted the "Topography Bureau" within Section II of the General Staff. The Topography Bureau executed in 30 days the reconnaissance and updating of 14 map sheets at a scale of 1:100,000, covering the entire military theater of operations south of the Danube (approximately 13,000 square kilometers). After the conflict ended, the bureau participated in the delimitation of the border within the Romanian-Bulgarian mixed commission and updated the map at a scale of 1:50,000 used in the Giurgiu Protocol.

April 1916 The Aerial Photography Service
It was decided to establish an "aerial photography service" within aviation, exploiting the concept presented by Aurel Vlaicu since 1909. During World War I, the aerial photography service carried out several aerial photography reconnaissance missions, including in the areas of major battles fought at Nămoloasa, Mărăști, Mărășești, and Oituz. Initially, this aerial photography service used airplanes and aerial cameras built in the country at the aviation workshops in Cotroceni. The aerial cameras had a focal length of 26 cm and allowed the obtaining of aerial photographs with dimensions of 9x12 cm.

April 1, 1916 The Concept of Creating a Map Optimized for Artillery Needs
Colonel I. Pavelescu was appointed "head of the Geographic Service in the Army Zone and tasked with organizing and leading the Topographic and Observation Sections at Divisions and Artillery Brigades on the Army front." The Army Geographic Service developed a new concept that supported the creation of a map optimized for artillery needs and the organization of the service during wartime. The concept advocated for the creation of a new map - "Shooting Director Plans" - that would use a single projection for the entire country. It also required the organization of an aerial photography service with 6 aerial photography sections and a mobile processing section.

1916 Establishment of a Unified Concept for the Organization and Use of the Army Geographic Service
Most of the specialized military personnel of the Army Geographic Service were integrated into the combat units in the country. This situation led, in the first part of World War I, to the absence of geographic support for their troops and imposed the need to establish a unified concept for the organization and use of the Army Geographic Service suitable for conducting military operations.

October 1916 Choosing the Projection for the Shooting Director Plans at Scales of 1:20,000 and 1:10,000
The French military mission led by Major A. Cholesky arrived, with whom the Army Geographic Service resumed the issue of unifying the different cartographic projections used, choosing the Lambert conformal conic projection for the preparation of the Shooting Director Plans at scales of 1:20,000 and 1:10,000.
 

November 1, 1916 “Provisional Instructions for the Preparation of Directive Plans and Organization of Artillery Fire”

The “Provisional Instructions for the Preparation of Directive Plans and Organization of Artillery Fire” were issued, representing the technical requirements for materializing the concept of geographical assurance for the army. In the same year, our country adopted the “Clarke Reference Ellipsoid,” determined in 1880.

1916-1918 All facilities of the observatory, library, and technical archives were destroyed.

During the occupation of southern Romania by German-Bulgarian troops and the retreat of the Army and the entire state leadership to Moldova, all the astronomical-geodetic equipment and all the documentary astronomical materials belonging to the Military Astronomical Observatory were “captured.” All facilities of the observatory, library, its technical archives, and the two medium-sized meridians from the fundamental zero point in Constanța were destroyed.

1916-1917 Updating directive plans photogrammetrically

The aerial photo service, later named “Aeronautical Service,” was developed and equipped with aerial photo cameras with focal lengths of 36 and 50 cm. Starting in August 1917, the Army's Geographic Service managed for the first time to create updated directive plans photogrammetrically through a photogrammetric processing section, deployed in Iași. By creating and updating maps using photogrammetric methods, each officer and non-commissioned officer of the Romanian Army was provided with a 1:100,000 scale map, and each commander was provided with a set of maps for transposing the tactical situation, special missions, and reconnaissance. Starting from the second half of 1917, all maps were replaced every two months without returning the old ones, regardless of whether they were worn out or not.

June 13, 1918 Stereophotogrammetric Bureau

Colonel A. Pârvanovici is appointed head of the Army Geographic Service for the Interior Zone. The aerial photo section that operated at the Army Geographic Service becomes Office 4 “Photogrammetry and Photographic Retouching” within the Topographic Section and, after the war, it merges with the photocopying workshop within the reproduction sector, taking the name “Stereophotogrammetric Bureau.”

1918-1920 Rebuilding the Military Astronomical Observatory

The rebuilding of the Military Astronomical Observatory in Bucharest begins, equipping it with astronomical-geodetic equipment.

1919 Brigadier General R. Toroceanu is appointed senior director of the Army Geographic Service.

1920 Specialized training schools

The Army Geographic Service is reorganized as follows: service command, with four administrative offices, four technical sections (geodesy-astronomy, topography, cartography, and map reproduction), the School of Topographic Section Chiefs and Observers, and the School of Draftsmen and Engravers.
 

1922 The International Meridian Arc
The General Assembly of the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics is held, establishing the need to measure an international meridian arc passing through the western part of Romania. The Army's Geographic Service also participates in the measurements, determining, between 1926-1930, using the Schreiber method, 41 points on a triangulation chain (the "international meridian arc") of the first order along the Lugoj-Oradea-Satu Mare direction and 42 points on a triangulation chain (on the 45th parallel) of the same order in the southern part of the country on the Râmnicu-Vâlcea-Tîrgovişte-Brăila bases, linking them to the fundamental astronomical point Dealu Piscului.

1926 Determination of Latitude and Azimuth at Triangulation Points at the Ends of Geodetic Bases
The Military Astronomical Observatory begins work on determining latitude and azimuth at triangulation points at the ends of geodetic bases. The first such work was carried out at the Lugoj base head, where latitude and azimuth were determined. Latitude was measured using the Talcott-Harebow and Struve methods, while azimuth was determined using the Meyewr method and the observation of the North Star at its vertical crossing over the sighting mark. The obtained precision established this work as a true guide for Romanian military astronomers in executing astronomical determinations.

November 1926 Participation in the Second Congress of the International Society of Photogrammetry
The second congress of the International Society of Photogrammetry is held, attended by the Army's Geographic Service, represented by Lieutenant Colonel W. Miorini, and the Romanian Aeronautics, represented by Captain Aviator C. Gonta.

April 4, 1928 Importance of Using Photogrammetric Methods in Map Creation and Updating
The Army's Geographic Service submits report no. 2856 to the General Staff, highlighting the importance of using photogrammetric methods in map creation and updating. Following approval, an auto-cartograph, a coordinate plotter, two aerial photogrammetric cameras with aircraft mounting chassis, and a photorectifier are acquired.

1928 Photogrammetry Workshop
The stereophotogrammetric office within the Army's Geographic Service is transformed into the Photocopying and Photogrammetry Workshop.

1930 Military Geographic Institute
The Army's Geographic Service is transformed into the "Military Geographic Institute," comprising: the institute's leadership, the technical service with four sections (Geodesy, Topography, Photogrammetry, Cartographic Reproduction), the School of Draftsmen and Engravers, a study office, an optics office, the administrative service, workshops, and a military company.

1930 Ion Mihalache No. 124-126 The Military Geographic Institute is relocated to the premises of the former Military School of Engineering, Artillery, and Navy on Colonel M. Ghica Boulevard (now Ion Mihalache) no. 124-126, where it still operates today.

1930 Modern Triangulation Project In the same year, the modern triangulation project is developed, based on the classical French concept, forming chains along meridians and parallels, which was completed definitively after World War II. The fundamental point for the entire country was the Western Pillar of the Military Astronomical Observatory, and the reference ellipsoid adopted was the "Hayford ellipsoid," determined in 1909. At the same time, the stereographic projection with a single secant plane was adopted, with the projection center near Brașov, replacing the old Bonne projection.

1932 General Survey of Romania's Map The Military Geographic Institute begins a new general survey of Romania's map using the stereographic projection with a single secant plane.

1933 Rigorous Compensation of the First Leveling Network After World War I The first leveling network established after World War I is rigorously compensated, processed using the least squares method, in relation to the fundamental zero point - Constanța.

1933 Participation in the Verification of the Wegener-Meinesz Hypothesis on Continental Drift The Military Geographic Institute, through the Military Astronomical Observatory, participates, following the decision of the International Geodesy Association and the International Astronomical Union, in a new operation (the first, experimental, took place in 1926) to determine longitudes at various points on Earth to verify the Wegener-Meinesz hypothesis on continental drift.

1933-1934 Determination of Laplace Points in Primary Triangulation Chains Laplace points are determined in the primary triangulation chains using the Bamberg instrument and secondary astronomical points using the prismatic astrolabe.

1935 Redetermination of the Longitude of the Fundamental Astronomical Point Measurements to determine the longitude of the fundamental astronomical point at Dealu Piscului are resumed. Calculations based on the observations made resulted in a difference of only 0.009 seconds compared to the value obtained in 1900, considered highly precise.

1935 Cartography School. Cartographic Reproduction Section A new building is inaugurated to house the "Cartographic Reproduction Section," and the School of Draftsmen and Engravers is transformed into the "School of Cartography."

1936 First Static Gravimeters in Romania. Bouguer Anomaly Map The Military Astronomical Observatory is equipped with Romania's first static gravimeters, enabling the determination of gravity differences at network points and the creation of the first "Bouguer anomaly map."

1937-1943 Astronomical Determinations
Astronomical determinations are carried out: in 1937, the main astronomical point Chișinău from the Eastern meridian chain is determined to control triangulation in eastern Romania; in 1938, longitude is determined at the Lugoj base head and at the main Trifești point in the Roman base; in 1939, the main astronomical point Sfântu Gheorghe is determined at the Eastern base head; in 1940, astronomical measurements are conducted at the central base in Bucharest; in 1941, the main astronomical point Fetești (Maltezi) is determined on the Danube parallel chain, segment Bucharest-Constanța; in 1943, astronomical observations for azimuth determination at the Lugoj base are redone.

1939 Mobile Geographic Campaign Units Due to the political-military events preceding World War II, three geographic sections were established at the army level, six photogrammetric sections at the corps level, and thirteen topographic sections at the division level. These structures were housed in six train wagons, forming "mobile geographic campaign units."

July 15, 1943 Military Geographic Institute's Map Depot The Military Geographic Institute's map depot (approximately 40 train wagons) is moved to Bușteni, and in early 1944, the Cartographic Reproduction Section is relocated to Domnești, the Geodesy and Topography Sections to Berevoiești, and the Cartography School to Stănești, Argeș County.
 

1944 Organization of Geographic Support for Troops
The structures of the Military Geographic Institute that had been relocated due to the war were returned to the barracks in Bucharest. Starting in the second half of 1944, at the level of military echelons, structures designated for providing geographic support to troops were organized as follows: a topographic officer within each regiment command, a topographic section at the division level, a photogrammetric section at the corps of the army headquarters, a geographic section at the army headquarters, and the Topographic Section at the General Staff level.

March 13, 1945 Technical School for Land Surveying, Cartography, and Graphic Arts Operators
The Cartography School was transformed into the "Technical School for Land Surveying, Cartography, and Graphic Arts Operators," which functioned until December 1, 1949.

April 15, 1946 Studies and Design Section
The Military Geographic Institute was reorganized into a technical sub-directorate, with five sections (Geodesy, Topography, Photogrammetry, and Cartographic Reproduction) and an administrative service, with 14 offices and workshops. Additionally, the Studies and Design Section was created. The institute also included the "Technical School for Land Surveying, Cartography, and Graphic Arts Operators" (since March 13, 1945), the "School of Geodesy and Topography" for officers preparing to head topographic offices at the division level, and the "School of Cartography and Graphic Arts" for training civilian personnel.

1948 Photogrammetric Operators in the Photogrammetric Section
The photogrammetric operators from the Aerophotogrammetric Institute of the Aviation Command were integrated into the Photogrammetric Section of the Military Geographic Institute.

September 1, 1949 School of Topographic Officers
The Cartography and Graphic Arts School was transformed into the "Technical School for Non-Commissioned Cartographic Officers," and on November 8, 1950, it was further transformed into the "School of Topographic Officers," with a duration of two years.

June 28, 1950 Military Topographic Enterprise
By order of the General Staff No. 122159, the Military Geographic Institute, under the leadership of General M. Popescu, was transformed into the "Military Topographic Enterprise," comprising the enterprise command and the technical sector, which included the "Geodetic Survey Service," "Photogrammetric Service," "Topo-Photogrammetric Service," "Cartography and Reproduction Service," and "Planning, Control, and Training Service."

November 1950 Faculty of Geodesy at the Military Technical Academy
The Faculty of Geodesy was established within the Military Technical Academy in Bucharest.

January 15, 1951 Military Topographic Directorate
The Military Topographic Enterprise (along with the Topographic Section from the General Staff) was transformed into the "Military Topographic Directorate," consisting of the following military units: "Geodetic Detachment," "Topographic Detachment," "Aerophotogrammetric Unit," "Military Cartography Factory," "Aerophotogrammetric Detachment," and "Central Map Depot."

1951 New Compact Triangulation Network
A new compact triangulation network was designed (surface network by orders: I, II, III, and IV).

December 24, 1952 Gauss-Krüger Projection, Krasovsky Reference Ellipsoid
By Council of Ministers Decision No. 2920, Romania adopted a new geodetic concept, which included the adoption of the "Krasovsky reference ellipsoid," the use of the "Gauss-Krüger projection," and the "Pulkovo fundamental astronomical point" as well as a zero-level for altitude calculations based on the multi-annual average of the Kronstadt-Baltic Sea tide gauge.

1952 Magnetism Work
The Military Astronomical Observatory of the Military Topographic Directorate resumed magnetic field work, determining magnetic declination, magnetic and geographic azimuth at more than 500 points nationwide.

1951-1958 Military Topographic Map at 1:25,000 Scale, First Edition
Fieldwork was carried out for the realization of the "military topographic map at a 1:25,000 scale," first edition, in Gauss-Krüger projection. Printing was completed by 1960 for the entire national territory.

1954-1968 Triangulation Networks of Orders I, II, III, and IV
The "triangulation networks of orders I, II, III, and IV" were measured and materialized in the field as compact surface networks, comprising 337, 887, 2894, and 4635 geodetic points, respectively.

1956-1958 First Astro-Geodetic Adjustment
The "first astro-geodetic adjustment" was carried out in collaboration with the member states of the Warsaw Pact, with data processing conducted in Moscow using electronic equipment.

1956-1962 Military Topographic Map at 1:50,000 Scale, First Edition
The first edition of the "military topographic map at a 1:50,000 scale" was created as a derived map from the 1:25,000 scale military topographic map, using Gauss-Krüger projection.

1957 Geodesy and Topography Unit, Buzău
The Military Topographic Directorate, under Colonel V. Șuta, was reorganized, forming the "Geodesy and Topography Unit" in Buzău and the "Cartography and Photogrammetry Unit" in Bucharest.

1958-1965 State-Leveling Networks of Orders I-IV, Geodetic Leveling Network
State-leveling networks of orders I-IV and the "geodetic leveling network" were completed for the entire national territory, used for the elevation referencing of triangulation points.

1959-1970 Urban Planning Sketches
Plans for urban planning sketches were developed for 126 cities.

1960 First Edition of the 1:500,000 Scale Derived Map, 1:1,100,000 Scale Map
The first edition of the 1:500,000 scale derived map in transverse conformal cylindrical Gauss-Krüger projection was completed. A 1:1,100,000 scale map in direct polyconic projection was also created for national and nearby European territories.

1961 Gravimetric Determinations Nationwide
The gravimetry department of the Military Astronomical Observatory resumed gravimetric determinations across Romania.

1967 Scientific Research Center for Military Geodesy and Cartography
The "Scientific Research Center for Military Geodesy and Cartography" was established as an independent unit within the Military Topographic Directorate.

1968-1970 "Potsdam-Pulkovo-Sofia Cosmic Triangle"
The Military Astronomical Observatory participates in an international collaboration to establish the "Potsdam-Pulkovo-Sofia Cosmic Triangle." On this occasion, latitude and longitude are determined at all points of the first-order geodetic network. Together with geodetic and gravimetric measurements, this enables the establishment of a reference scale necessary for satellite-based Earth measurements.

1970-1990 Modernized 1:25,000 Scale Map – Second Edition
The second edition of the "modernized 1:25,000 scale map" is produced, using the Gauss-Krüger projection on the Krasovsky ellipsoid, also known as the modernized map.
1972

First National Coverage "Quasigeoid"
The first nationally covered "quasigeoid" is created, referenced to the Krasovsky ellipsoid, with an accuracy of 0.5 m, using vertical deviation values. Additionally, maps of the vertical deviation components are produced.

1978 Computing Office
The "Computing Office" is established as a production unit of the Military Topographic Directorate.

1983 Completion of Romania’s National Triangulation
The national triangulation of Romania, initiated in 1956, is completed. The reference ellipsoid used is the Krasovsky ellipsoid, and the coordinate system applied is the 1942 Coordinate System with its origin in Pulkovo.

1990-1991 "ROMDOP 90 and ROMDOP 91" Doppler Networks
Together with the Bulgarian Military Topographic Service, the "ROMDOP 90 and ROMDOP 91" Doppler networks are established using the Transit satellite system. Additionally, the first GPS determinations are conducted to establish a connection with the Royal Astronomical Observatory in Herstmonceux, UK, and the Astronomical Observatory in Tovarnik, Croatia.

1990-1991 Establishment of National Gravimetric Networks
The national gravimetric networks are established in collaboration with the Geological Institute of Romania. The fundamental point of the national geodetic network is doubled with a gravimetric point. A gravimetric pillar is installed in the basement of the building, forming a loop to ensure a connection with the base point in Surlari and the wider European gravimetric network.

January 1, 1991 The Military Topogeodesy Research, Design, and Production Institute
The Military Topographic Directorate is reorganized, and the "Military Topogeodesy Research, Design, and Production Institute" is established under the leadership of Colonel G. Toma, through the unification of the Scientific Research Center with the Cartography and Photogrammetry Unit and the production sections of the Geodesy and Cartography Unit.

1991-1994
The first topographic military maps interoperable with NATO geographic standards
The "General Topographic Maps at scales 1:50,000 - 1:1,000,000" are produced, representing the first topographic military maps interoperable with NATO geographic standards.

1995
First-order military GPS network
The first-order military GPS network, consisting of 7 points where GPS observations were made by specialists from the U.S. Defense Mapping Agency, together with officers from the Military Topographic Directorate, is established.

1995
Gravimetric networks of orders 0, I, II
The first-order gravimetric network is established, in which absolute gravity measurements were made at 4 points, the first-order relative gravimetric network at 21 points, and one year later, the second-order gravimetric network at 209 points.

1997
Second-order military GPS network
The second-order military GPS network (179 points) is established using the WGS84 ellipsoid as the reference ellipsoid.

1998
Secular variation network. National magnetism network
The "Secular Variation Network" (37 points) and the "National Magnetism Network" (254 points) are established.

1998-2002
JOG-Air air navigation maps, scale 1:250,000
"JOG-Air Air Navigation Maps at a scale of 1:250,000" are created in analog format, according to NATO geographic standards, for Romania’s responsibility area, using military topographic maps and general topographic maps at a scale of 1:200,000.

1999
Permanent GPS station
A permanent GPS station is installed at the Military Astronomical Observatory, providing support for military GPS determinations in the area.

1999-2004
NATO standard digital elevation models of the terrain
NATO standard Digital Terrain Elevation Data (DTED) models are created: DTED Level 1 with a resolution of 3” x 3” and DTED Level 2 with a resolution of 1” x 1”. The absolute vertical accuracy of both models ranges from 7 to 18.

1999-2004
Georeferenced military topographic maps
Military topographic maps at scales 1:25,000, 1:50,000, 1:100,000, 1:200,000, 1:500,000, and 1:1,000,000, as well as general topographic maps at scales 1:50,000, 1:100,000, 1:200,000, 1:500,000, and 1:1,000,000, are georeferenced in Gauss-Kruger projection. These maps were later reprojected into geographic coordinates on the Krasovsky and WGS84 ellipsoids and into the 1970 Stereographic projection on the Krasovsky ellipsoid.

2004-2007
VMap Level 2 digital vector map
A VMap Level 2 digital vector map is created, following the MIL-V-89032 standard, using military topographic map originals at a scale of 1:50,000. The product contains 424 NATO standard nomenclatures for Romania, with a map sheet size of 18’ x 15’. The accuracy of the VMap2 product is as follows: planimetric - Class 2 (50m-100m), and altimetric - Class 3 (<2m) and Class 4 (>2m).

2008-2010
VMap Level 1 digital vector map
A VMap Level 1 digital vector map is created, following the MIL-V-89032 standard, using JOG-AIR Edition 4 originals at a scale of 1:250,000. The product contains 16 NATO standard nomenclatures for Romania, with a map sheet size of 20° x 10°.

November 12, 2009
150 years of existence
On the occasion of the 150th anniversary, the Military Topographic Directorate is awarded a flag of identification, a spiritual patron is established—Saint Apostle Paul, the "Monument of Military Topogeodesists" is unveiled, and the President of Romania decorates the institution with the "Cultural Merit" Order, Commander Grade, category H - Scientific Research.
 

March 24, 2010
Aerophotogrammetry services and creation of orthophotoplans on the territory of Romania
The Government of Romania issues "Emergency Ordinance no. 21 regarding the execution of aerophotogrammetry services and the creation of orthophotoplans on the territory of Romania and the digitization and updating services of the Agricultural Parcel Identification System for the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development" (the title modified by Article I, point 1 of Emergency Ordinance no. 95/2010, in force since November 3, 2010), approved by Law no. 136/2010, with subsequent amendments and completions. According to Emergency Ordinance 21/2010, the Ministry of National Defense, through the Military Topographic Directorate, carries out aerophotography of the entire national territory every 3 years in cooperation with the Air Force Staff, creates orthophotoplans for the entire territory of Romania, and carries out digitization and updating of the Agricultural Parcel Identification System for the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, from 2010 to 2020.

2010-2013
First cycle of aerophotography of the entire national territory
The first cycle of aerophotography of the national territory is completed according to Emergency Ordinance 21/2010, and orthorectified RGB and FCIR images are obtained, with resolutions of 30 cm and 50 cm. During the same period, the "vector database for the creation of the Physical-Geographical Map of Romania at a scale of 1:500,000" is created and updated, and the "geographical names database" is developed, using the military topographic map at a scale of 1:25,000 as the source. Additionally, the modernization and development of the Military Topographic Directorate’s IT network and specialized software and hardware equipment for obtaining, processing, and exploiting digital geographic information are carried out.

2010-2014
Staff sergeant of the general staff at the Afghanistan operational theater map depot
The Military Topographic Directorate provides specialized military personnel for a staff sergeant position in the general staff at the map depot of the Afghanistan operational theater.

July 16, 2012
Military Topographic Directorate "Division General Constantin Barozzi"
The Military Topographic Directorate is awarded the honorary title "Division General Constantin Barozzi," and the Military Astronomical Observatory is given the honorary title "Lieutenant Colonel Constantin Căpităneanu."

August 17, 2012
Awarding of the battle flag
By Presidential Decree no. 561, the Military Topographic Directorate "Division General Constantin Barozzi" is awarded the battle flag.

November 12, 2012
Presentation of the battle flag
On the occasion of its 153rd anniversary, the Military Topographic Directorate "Division General Constantin Barozzi" is presented with the battle flag by the Chief of the General Staff, and the statue and portrait of Ruler Alexandru Ioan Cuza are unveiled.

2013-2014
Liaison officer/specialist officer in the Afghanistan peace mission
The Military Topographic Directorate "Division General Constantin Barozzi" provides a liaison officer/specialist officer for the Romanian Special Operations Group in the Afghanistan operational theater during the peace mission.

2013-2014
INIS Geoportal - Ministry of National Defense component
The "INIS Geoportal - Ministry of National Defense component" and the website of the Military Topographic Directorate "Division General Constantin Barozzi" are developed.

November 12, 2014
"Military Virtue" Order, Knight grade, with peace insignia
By Presidential Order no. 670, on November 12, 2014, for its 155 years of activity, the battle flag of the Military Topographic Directorate "Division General Constantin Barozzi" is decorated with the "Military Virtue" Order, Knight grade, with peace insignia.

November 12, 2019
January 1, 2019 - Defense Geospatial Information Agency "Division General Constantin Barozzi"
On January 1, 2019, the Military Topographic Directorate "Division General Constantin Barozzi" was transformed and renamed as the Defense Geospatial Information Agency "Division General Constantin Barozzi."