ääniatlas

An ääniatlas, a Finnish term roughly translating to "sound atlas" or "audio map," is a digital or physical collection of sound recordings categorized by geographical location. These atlases aim to document and preserve the acoustic environments of specific places, capturing the unique soundscapes that define them. The recordings can range from natural sounds like birdsong, wind, and water to urban sounds such as traffic, human voices, and industrial noises.

The creation of an ääniatlas typically involves field recording expeditions where sound engineers and researchers meticulously capture audio data. This data is then organized, cataloged, and often accompanied by metadata such as the exact location, date, time, and environmental conditions. Some ääniatlases are interactive, allowing users to explore soundscapes through online maps or databases, while others may be presented as curated exhibitions or archival collections.

Ääniatlases serve various purposes. They are valuable tools for researchers in fields like ecology, urban planning, and acoustics, providing data for environmental monitoring, noise pollution studies, and the analysis of biodiversity. For the general public, they offer an immersive way to experience and understand different environments, fostering a greater appreciation for the auditory dimension of our world. They can also serve as a cultural record, preserving the sonic heritage of a region.