What is the process of aligning spatial data to a known coordinate system called?

The process of aligning spatial data to a known coordinate system is known as georeferencing. This involves assigning real-world coordinates to each pixel or feature within the spatial dataset, enabling it to be accurately placed on a map in relation to other spatial features. Georeferencing is crucial for integrating datasets collected from different sources or at different times, as it ensures all data can be compared and analyzed accurately in the same spatial context.

When performing georeferencing, one typically uses control points or reference locations with known coordinates to adjust the dataset, correcting for any distortions or misalignments. This systematic approach is integral in creating reliable geographic datasets that can be utilized across various applications, including mapping, analysis, and modeling.

The other options speak to different processes: data transformation refers to changing the format or structure of data, data integration is about combining multiple datasets into a coherent whole, and spatial data generalization involves simplifying data representations for easier interpretation or analysis. Each of these processes serves a unique purpose within the realm of geographic information systems, but they do not specifically address the alignment of spatial data to a coordinate system in the way georeferencing does.