1. A method for generating maps of a desired area that are referenced to a universal uniform spatial reference frame, the method comprising: a) providing a mobile platform having a mapping processor and at least one mapping sensor; b) apply the mapping sensor to determine the location of features to be mapped relative to the mobile platform; c) moving the mobile platform to a new location, applying the mapping sensor to determine the location of features to be mapped relative to the mobile platform, and generating or adding to a map the locations determined; d) repeating step (c) until the desired area is mapped; e) applying at least one mapping sensor to locate at least one position on the map of the desired area on a universal uniform spatial reference frame; and f) transforming positions on the map of the desired area into the universal uniform spatial reference frame.