This manuscript provides the first-ever cartometric study of portolan chart geometry that firmly corroborates the classical antiquity origin of their spatial data. The conclusions are not solely based on the numerical approach, yet they are also substantially supported by the available historical records. Concurrently, it provides a detailed overview of the history of cartometric studies of portolan charts, especially in terms of explaining the benefits and constraints of their methodology.

In 1944, Ms. Y.S. Ma, the only female geologist in China at the time was killed at the age of 25. This year marks the 82nd anniversary of her tragic death. This article is dedicated to the young scholar who died before achieving her goal, leaving future generations deeply saddened.

Obituary: Bodo Reinisch (1936–2025).