And That's About the Size of It: Visual Magnitude as a Measurement of the Physical Landscape

Abstract

Current technology has created conditions that are conducive to direct measurement of the portions of physical landscapes being assessed. Visual magnitude is a measure of the slope, aspect, and distance of a land plane or object from the observer. It can be measured in square minutes of the portion of the field of view occupied by the land unit or object. Quantitative measures of this type can be used directly in statements of goals, objectives, standards, and ordinances and can be accurately replicated. Computer software has been developed to measure visual magnitude, but there is potential for further development and application.