In this contribution, I suggest activating the notion of atmospheres as a heuristic device to empirically research affects. I will argue that analysing the composition of atmospheres allows one to take into account three key dimensions of affects: their spatio-materiality, their sensuality and their (in)stability. Building on a process understanding of atmospheres, I reflect on how each of the three dimensions can be empirically researched and how they interplay in the emergence of atmospheres.

The erosion of and depositions on channel bed surfaces are instrumental to understanding debris flow processes. We present different methods and highlight their pro and cons. Terrestrial and airborne laser scanning, erosion sensors, cross sections and geomorphological mapping are compared. Two of these approaches are tested and applied in a torrent. The results indicate that the methods are associated with variable temporal and spatial resolution as well as data quality and invested effort.

The paper outlines a politico-geographical research agenda for the investigation of the making, functioning and implications of drone systems. Such an agenda, it is claimed, could afford deepened insight into the driving forces that are behind current drone developments, would show how drones work in different institutional contexts, and could highlight how drones impact on the envisioned reality.

Editorial introducing the special issue of Geographica Helvetica: Mapping, Measuring and Modeling in Geomorphology.

The article deals with growing importance of philanthropy regarding German urban development. Regarding financial shortage of public authorities and increasing concentration of private assets, the financial and local engagement of wealthy citizens open up creative leeway for urban policy. Key findings of the article categorize German cities regarding their level of philanthropy activity. Different project types concerning cooperation between philanthropists and local authorities are presented.

Vulnerability analysis is essential to risk studies. Starting with the key concepts of risk, this work provides a procedure which allows precise knowledge of the local vulnerability, available to all types of hazards and applicable to all areas. Finally, in order to get an overall perspective of risk, assets vulnerabilities are crossed with the hazards areas, in accordance to the spatial distribution of both components and using innovative geomatics operations.

Participatory development has multiplied opportunities to engage in development activities. Building on the investigation of an infrastructural project in Nepal, this paper suggests that participatory development has expanded opportunities for social mobility also for traditionally marginalised groups, though these opportunities are not necessarily open to everyone. When failing to reflect on complex power relations, participatory practices risk missing their transformational promises.