# beautifulpublicdata.com

> AI-optimized mirror of beautifulpublicdata.com containing 36 pages totalling 35,653 words of clean markdown content, structured data, and semantic HTML. Original source: https://beautifulpublicdata.com/. Last updated: 2026-04-28T16:36:01.769Z.

Each page is available as HTML (with JSON-LD structured data) and Markdown (text-only, ideal for LLMs and RAG).

## Articles & Blog Posts

- [🖼️🛳️ NEW! Prints for sale: One year of ship movements](/thank-you/index.html): The page offers prints for sale related to ship movements, specifically showcasing one year of data. It includes an option for users to subscribe, enhancing engagement with the provided content. (11 words)
- [14,000 Photos of Army Uniforms and Rations from the 70s and 80s](/army-uniforms-rations-photos-1970s-1980s/index.html): The US Army Natick Soldier Systems Center, located near Boston, plays a crucial role in developing equipment for the armed forces, producing essential supplies like uniforms and cold-weather gear for its 1.3 million active personnel. The center's photographic collection, consisting of over 14,000 images, documents the variety of uniforms and gear designed for soldiers, including photos of specialized meals from the collection such as 'AIR FORCE BEEF BITES' and meals for NASA’s Apollo program. Visual researcher Matthieu Nicol discovered this collection and has since created books and exhibitions focusing on the photographs, emphasizing their artistic and cultural value. Nicol's guidelines for selection highlight genuine human representations of uniforms and a slightly uncanny presentation, intentionally avoiding mocking the subjects. The Army confirmed that the photos are in the public domain, allowing for broader artistic expression.
- [About this site](/about/index.html): Jon Keegan is an investigative data reporter who creates the 'Beautiful Public Data' newsletter, exploring visually interesting datasets sourced from government archives. His work showcases a variety of topics, including license plates, nuclear fusion research, and highway signage. In a recent feature, The Washington Post columnist Philip Bump praised the newsletter as a delightful collection of government data visualizations. Notable projects covered include the U.S. Frequency Allocation Chart, America's Highway Style Guide, and the Pillbox Database for drug identification. Keegan invites readers to contribute ideas for future data explorations.
- [Design for the People: The US Web Design System and the Public Sans Typeface](/us-web-design-system-public-sans/index.html): The U.S. government has transitioned from physical interactions to digital interfaces through approximately 26,000 federal websites, which previously suffered from inconsistent designs and usability issues. The problematic launch of Healthcare.gov in 2013 led to the establishment of two teams, 18F and the U.S. Digital Service (USDS), aimed at improving government technology. They developed the U.S. Web Design System (USWDS), a standard for creating a cohesive and user-friendly experience across federal sites, now utilized by 94 agencies and generating around 1.1 billion pageviews. USWDS emphasizes user needs, trust, and accessibility, ensuring compliance for users with disabilities. The open-source typeface Public Sans was introduced for consistent government typography, supporting transparency and collaboration. The projects focus on continuous improvement, following the principle of 'Strive to be better, not necessarily perfect.'
- [During this period of frenzied investment in the 70’s, two major directions for fusion research emerged: the torus or donut shaped “Tokamak” design utilized by Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, and MFTF-B's “magnetic mirror” based approach, with a linear vessel housing the superheated plasma bouncing the plasma off two opposing magnetic “mirrors” at either end of the chamber.](/the-mirror-fusion-test-facility/index.html): On February 21, 1986, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory celebrated the completion of the Mirror Fusion Test Facility-B (MFTF-B). Despite nearly a decade of development and nearly a billion dollars in funding, the project was shut down without ever being operational. This decision, articulated by Secretary of Energy John Herrington, was driven by budget constraints. The MFTF-B featured a large superconducting 'yin-yang' magnet designed for containing high-temperature plasma for nuclear fusion experiments, which considered fusion energy a potential solution for the global energy crisis. Earlier developments in fusion research were influenced by the energy challenges of the 1970s, with various designs emerging, including the magnetic mirror approach used by MFTF-B, contrasted with the more prevalent tokamak design. 

Significant advancements have occurred in fusion research, notably with the National Ignition Facility achieving a net energy gain from fusion in December 2022. Many scientists continue to aspire toward mastering fusion as a sustainable energy source, reflecting a long-standing scientific quest. MFTF-B remains a significant chapter in the history of fusion. After its decommissioning, the facility's components were salvaged, while the lab building itself was demolished in 2005. (34,653 words)
- [How LiDAR measures the toll of climate disasters](/how-lidar-measures-the-toll-of-climate-disasters/index.html): In January 2025, wildfires in Los Angeles County, specifically the Eaton and Palisades fires, caused significant destruction, resulting in 29 fatalities and the loss of 16,000 structures, with damages estimated at $60 billion across over 55,000 acres. Researchers are employing LiDAR technology to analyze the changes in landscape geometry caused by these disasters. LiDAR captures before-and-after snapshots of the landscape, allowing scientists to visualize alterations such as lost vegetation and buildings. The data is invaluable for understanding the impacts of climate-driven events, assessing flood risks, and predicting future disasters. Despite its importance, funding for LiDAR data collection faces uncertainty due to potential budget cuts in scientific research.
- [Mapping the Sea Floor](/mapping-the-sea-floor/index.html): The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) conducted a mapping project off Cape Ann, Massachusetts, using the research vessels _Ocean Explorer_ and _Connecticut_ in 2004 and 2005. The project mapped 125 square miles of the sea floor, employing advanced sonar and imaging technologies to capture detailed bathymetric data and sediment composition up to 92 meters deep. A total of 834 photographs were taken using the SEABOSS instrument, showcasing diverse marine life including lobsters, sharks, and crabs. The primary aim of the study was to gather geological information for effective management of marine and coastal resources, aiding in habitat protection and environmental assessments.
- [Nuclear Weapon Test Films](/nuclear-weapon-test-films/index.html): The content discusses the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory's (LLNL) archives of over 10,000 films documenting U.S. nuclear weapon tests conducted from 1945 to 1992. These tests, which number 1,032, include both high-altitude and underground detonations. The films, shot at 2,400 frames per second, capture the explosive phenomena and their impacts, such as shock waves and fireballs. Notable tests featured include the 'Grable' device and the 'Bravo' bomb. In 2017, some of these films were digitized and declassified, now available on LLNL's YouTube channel. The content also mentions the transition of nuclear tests underground post-1963 due to fallout concerns, leading to the eventual U.S. moratorium on nuclear testing in 1992.
- [Subscribe to Beautiful Public Data](/subscribe/index.html): Beautiful Public Data is a project that explores and visualizes unique datasets sourced from government agencies, aiming to engage the audience with visually appealing information. Published bi-weekly, the site features detailed explanations of the datasets, how they were created, and highlights various intriguing datasets like the U.S. Frequency Allocation Chart, the Style Guide for America’s Highways, and the Pillbox Database. Columnist Philip Bump praised it as a valuable resource, celebrating its creativity and insightful presentations of complex data.
- [The Naughty Words the FAA Removed From the Sky](/trump-naughty-faa-waypoints/index.html): The article discusses the renaming of 368 navigation waypoints by the FAA from 2015 to 2024. It highlights that these waypoints, five-letter coded names used for aerial navigation, were often themed around pop culture or contained humorous references. Some waypoint names were changed to remove inappropriate or politically sensitive connotations, while others were renamed to honor figures such as basketball legend Kobe Bryant. A searchable table lists specific old names, their new counterparts, publication dates, and locations.
- [The USGS Cooperative National Geologic Map](/usgs-cooperative-national-geologic-map/index.html): The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has completed the most detailed geologic map for the lower 48 states, known as the Cooperative National Geologic Map. This project synthesizes decades of state survey data, combining around 100 archival geologic maps. Researchers standardized terminology and normalized datasets to address inconsistent rock-unit names and geologic ages. The resulting colorful maps have various applications in government, energy, real estate, and civil engineering, aiding in land management, hazard identification, and resource assessment. An economic analysis indicated that for every dollar spent on geologic mapping, $7 to $10 in benefits were returned. The project produced four maps showcasing different geological periods: Quaternary, current surface geology, Pre-Quaternary, and Precambrian. Despite their value, the USGS is facing substantial budget cuts for Fiscal Year 2026, which could affect future mapping efforts.
- [US Government UFO (UAP) Footage](/us-government-ufo-uap-footage/index.html): The content discusses Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP), previously known as UFOs, and outlines significant developments over recent years. It details the alarming accounts of pilots and the release of the 'GOFAST' and 'GIMBAL' videos, which prompted U.S. governmental interest and the establishment of the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force in 2020. Congressional action, including a 2020 spending bill directed by Senator Marco Rubio, led to a comprehensive analysis of UAP data, culminating in a report released in June 2021. The document examined 144 UAP instances from 2004 to 2021. Additionally, an investigation into a metal sample from a 1947 UAP crash revealed terrestrial origins. A new initiative, GREMLIN, aims to improve data collection on UAPs, with AARO set to issue annual reports summarizing UAP sightings; 757 reports were noted, with various categories identified, such as lights and orbs.
- [Visualizing Ship Movements with AIS Data](/visualizing-ship-movements-with-ais-data/index.html): The content discusses the Automatic Identification System (AIS), which broadcasts real-time data about ships, including identification and location, to enhance maritime safety. It highlights the significance of AIS in monitoring ship movements and the ability to visualize these movements through tools like NOAA's Marine Cadastre. The article elaborates on the use of AIS data for monitoring fishing activities, showcasing the potential for oversight in marine life conservation, while also noting how some entities, like Russia, may misuse this technology to evade sanctions. Additionally, it emphasizes the aesthetic appeal of ship tracking visualizations, which reveal patterns and traffic flows across oceans, making them resemble art.
- [Wild Horses](/wild-horses/index.html): The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is offering a $1,000 incentive for adopting wild horses and burros due to overpopulation, with current estimates at about 68,928 wild horses and 13,955 burros, while the ideal number is 27,000. The BLM conducts roundups, but this practice faces criticism for perceived cruelty, with allegations of injuries and deaths among the animals. The BLM's adoption program has placed over 270,000 animals since 1971, but concerns remain about the fate of adopted horses, as some may end up at slaughterhouses. Advocates suggest expanding the use of contraceptive methods for population control as a more humane alternative.

## Listings & Categories

- [🖼️🛳️ NEW! Prints for sale:](/tag/glaciers/index.html): The content features a new collection of prints for sale, specifically highlighting a collection of 100,000 high-resolution aerial photographs of glaciers captured over 40 years using a WWII surveillance camera. Additionally, it offers a specific print titled 'One year of ship movements' available for purchase. (39 words)
- [A collection of 100,000 striking high-resolution aerial photos of glaciers, photographed over 40 years with a 63-pound WW II surveillance camera.](/tag/nps/index.html): The content highlights the availability of a new product: prints for sale of ship movements, as well as a significant collection of aerial photographs of glaciers. This collection consists of 100,000 high-resolution images captured over 40 years using a WWII surveillance camera. (36 words)
- [A collection of 100,000 striking high-resolution aerial photos of glaciers, photographed over 40 years with a 63-pound WW II surveillance camera.](/tag/nsf/index.html): The page offers high-resolution aerial photographs of glaciers, highlighting a collection of 100,000 images taken over a span of 40 years using a WW II surveillance camera. Additionally, it features a link to purchase prints related to a year of ship movements. (36 words)
- [A collection of 3 posts](/tag/faa/index.html): The content includes three posts: 

1. **The Naughty Words the FAA Removed From the Sky**: Discusses FOIA records revealing the FAA's efforts in 2015 to rename navigation waypoints associated with Donald Trump, highlighting previously naughty names that were changed.

2. **FAA Aviation Maps**: Examines the Federal Aviation Administration's aviation maps, noted for their high information density and importance in governmental visual data representation.

3. **Pilot Manual for a 1940's U.S. Navy Blimp**: Features a 122-page manual providing comprehensive operating instructions and technical details for piloting a 250-foot-long, weaponized anti-submarine blimp. (95 words)
- [Explore the beautiful, intricate paths of ships over a year—tracked from America's busiest ports to the open ocean via AIS marine tracking data.](/tag/noaa/index.html): The content presents visualizations of ship movements, depicting intricate paths tracked through AIS marine data from America's busiest ports to the open ocean. It highlights the beauty of these movement patterns while also showcasing a collection of dolphin photographs that capture scars and marks from encounters with unknown creatures and boat propellers, illustrating the challenges and realities faced in marine environments. (55 words)
- [Government comics have taught Americans how to prevent forest fires, survive a nuclear blast, and how soldiers should handle homosexuality in the military.](/tag/marines/index.html): Government comic books have been utilized to educate the American public on various important topics, including forest fire prevention, nuclear blast survival, and appropriate conduct regarding homosexuality in the military. (27 words)
- [Government comics have taught Americans how to prevent forest fires, survive a nuclear blast, and how soldiers should handle homosexuality in the military.](/tag/army/index.html): The content showcases three new collections available for sale, each emphasizing distinct aspects of military history and branding. First, there is an archive of 14,000 photos depicting Army uniforms and rations from the 1970s and 1980s. Second, it highlights government comic books that cover various topics including fire prevention and military conduct regarding homosexuality. Finally, it features Army and Navy brand style guides that outline the branding and communication standards of the armed forces. (69 words)
- [Government comics have taught Americans how to prevent forest fires, survive a nuclear blast, and how soldiers should handle homosexuality in the military.](/tag/navy/index.html): The content presents a collection of three significant pieces related to U.S. government publications. First, it emphasizes the role of government comics in educating Americans on topics such as fire prevention and military guidelines regarding issues like homosexuality. Second, it highlights the Army and Navy brand style guides that outline the aesthetic and communicative framework of the U.S. armed forces. Lastly, it offers insights into a detailed pilot manual from the 1940s for a U.S. Navy blimp, which includes comprehensive operational instructions and specifications for this military aircraft. (81 words)
- [How LiDAR measures the toll of climate disasters](/tag/california/index.html): LiDAR technology provides detailed measurements of environmental changes, particularly useful in assessing damage from climate disasters. A comparison of LiDAR data before and after the January 2025 fires in Los Angeles highlights the extensive damage in a way that satellite imagery cannot achieve. (34 words)
- [How LiDAR measures the toll of climate disasters](/tag/wildfires/index.html): LiDAR technology provides detailed measurements of environmental damage caused by climate disasters, such as the January 2025 fires in Los Angeles. This method allows for a more precise assessment of devastation compared to satellite imagery. (44 words)
- [Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories has an archive of an estimated 10,000 films of nuclear weapons tests from the 1940's - 1960's.](/tag/llnl/index.html): The content features two main topics: the archival collection of nuclear weapon test films and the history of the Mirror Fusion Test Facility. The first topic highlights an archive at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories containing about 10,000 films documenting nuclear weapons tests from the 1940s to the 1960s. The second topic discusses the Mirror Fusion Test Facility, which was intended to advance nuclear fusion research but was ultimately shut down and never activated due to budget cuts and competition in scientific endeavors. (72 words)
- [New! Prints for Sale](/tag/volcanoes/index.html): This content introduces a new collection of prints for sale, featuring a post about the use of drones in mapping volcanic eruptions. It highlights the importance of drones in exploring and observing the hazardous environments associated with volcanic activity. (28 words)
- [New! Prints for Sale](/tag/ships/index.html): The page features a new collection of prints for sale, showcasing intricate visualizations of ship movements tracked over a year using AIS marine tracking data. The prints illustrate the routes of vessels from major U.S. ports to the open ocean, emphasizing their beautiful and complex paths. (33 words)
- [NEW! Prints for sale](/tag/uspto/index.html): The USPTO offers a system of 1,400 design codes to help search for trademarks featuring specific designs, such as 'Rickshaws', 'Centaurs', or 'Mechanical women.' Additionally, there is a new section for prints available for sale, including a collection related to one year of ship movements. (47 words)
- [The 12 human beings who walked on the Moon collected, catalogued and returned 842 pounds of lunar rock and soil. Each sample has been meticulously documented in NASA's Lunar Sample Catalog.](/tag/moon/index.html): The post discusses the collection of lunar rock and soil samples brought back from the Moon by the 12 astronauts who walked on its surface. In total, they returned 842 pounds of samples, all of which are carefully documented in NASA's Lunar Sample Catalog. (36 words)
- [The Bureau of Land Management wants to pay you $1,000 to adopt a wild horse. But the program has been criticized by animal rights advocates and subject to scrutiny by Congress.](/tag/blm/index.html): The Bureau of Land Management is offering $1,000 to individuals who adopt a wild horse. This initiative has faced criticism from animal rights advocates and has been under scrutiny from Congress. (34 words)
- [The Mirror Fusion Test Facility](/tag/doe/index.html): The Mirror Fusion Test Facility was a project aimed at advancing nuclear fusion research. However, due to budget constraints and competing scientific interests, the project was cancelled on its dedication day without ever being operational. (42 words)
- [The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Mugshot Dataset](/tag/nist/index.html): The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has a longstanding dataset of mugshot photos consisting of 1,573 individuals, including 175 minors. This dataset has been maintained for decades and raises ethical concerns about the inclusion of minors. (39 words)
- [The United States Frequency Allocation Chart](/tag/ntia/index.html): The United States Frequency Allocation Chart visually represents the complexity of managing the radio spectrum, an essential and often overlooked national asset. It highlights the various allocations and regulations that govern frequency usage in the U.S., emphasizing the importance of effective spectrum management. (32 words)
- [The United States has an official web design system and a custom typeface that belongs to the people. This thoughtful public design system aims to make government websites not only look good, but to make them accessible and functional for all.](/tag/gsa/index.html): The United States has introduced an official web design system featuring a custom typeface known as Public Sans. This initiative aims to enhance the aesthetics, accessibility, and functionality of government websites, ensuring they are user-friendly for everyone. (56 words)
- [Visualizing Ship Movements with AIS Data](/tag/ais/index.html): The page discusses the visualization of ship movements using AIS (Automatic Identification System) data. It highlights the detailed tracking of ships over a year, showcasing their intricate paths from major U.S. ports to the open ocean. A striking visual representation of these ship tracks is described, featuring luminous lines on a contrasting background. (30 words)
- [WWII Japanese Mass Incarceration Collections](/tag/wwii/index.html): The content discusses the WWII Japanese Mass Incarceration collections, highlighting the forced displacement and incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. It features haunting photographs that document this shameful chapter in American history. (24 words)

## Resources

- [Full Page Index](/index.html): Browse all cached pages with rich metadata
- [About This Cache](/about.html): Methodology, technical details, and usage guidelines
- [XML Sitemap](/sitemap.xml): Machine-readable sitemap for crawler discovery
- [Robots.txt](/robots.txt): Crawler directives