The Maritime Provinces Spatial Analysis Research Centre (MP_SpARC) is a computer-based, cross-discipline unit dedicated to spatial analysis using geomatics technologies.   It was opened in 2003 with funding from the Canadian Foundation for Innovation, Nova Scotia Innovation Trust Fund and various industry sponsors.  The purpose of the unit is to provide the necessary infrastructure and geomatics software to support research within the Maritime Provinces.   Researchers (including graduate students) have access to GIS, AutoCAD, remote sensing, graphical and seismic interpretation software as well as differential GPS equipment, total station for surveying, large format plotter, digitizing tablet and an EM38 conductivity meter.