Distributed virtual environments are the integration of virtual environments and network. Distributed virtual geo-environments(Geo-DVE) are virtual environments for studying geo-phenomena and geo-process. This paper discusses the concept and characteristics of Geo-DVE

and the relationship between GIS and Geo-DVE. The system design of Geo-DVE is addressed in terms of system architecture

data model

system interface

and programming tools. The paper eventually presents the hot research topics and frontiers regarding Geo-DVE from three aspects of theory

techniques

and applications. In terms of system architecture

data model

system interface

and programming tools. The paper eventually presents the hot research topics and frontiers regarding Geo-DVE from three aspects of theory

techniques

and applications. In terms of aspect of theory

the research challenge and frontiers include the relationship between virtual environments and physical geographic environments

geo-spatial and temporal cognition in virtual environments

3-D data model of virtual environments. In terms of aspect of techniques

rapid dynamic 3-D modeling

real-time communication and interaction

shared space and operation for multi-users

geo-process models based virtual environments

distributed collaborative work and group decision making support

and wearable mixed reality are included. In terms of aspect of applications

the building and development of further practical functions of 3-D digital cities and 3-D digital communities

visual data mining and knowledge discovery

virtual tourism

virtual battlefield

and virtual decision support environments for regional sustainable development should be highlighted.