Notes on Map Projections and Their Implications

Introduction to Map Projections

• Transforming a globe into a flat map involves cutting and stretching.
• Difficulty in creating a flat representation of a spherical surface due to distortion.

Historical Context

• Since the 1500s, mathematicians have developed algorithms to project the globe into flat maps.
• The process of translating a globe to a flat surface is called projection.

Types of Projections

• Cylindrical Projection: Common method where a cylinder is placed over the globe.
  • Points from the sphere project onto the cylinder's surface.
  • Unrolling the cylinder results in a flat rectangular map.
• Different projections affect the appearance and accuracy of the map in terms of shape, distance, direction, and land area.

Example: Mercator Projection

• Popularly used in education and platforms like Google Maps.
• Characteristics:
  • Preserves the shape of countries, suitable for navigation.
  • Lines between two points maintain the same angle for compass navigation.
• Issues with Mercator Projection:
  • Size distortion (e.g., Greenland appears similar in size to Africa).
  • Perpetuates imperialist attitudes due to misleading size perception.

Example: Gall-Peters Projection

• An equal area map, accurately representing land area.
• Distortion of country shapes is evident.
• Provides a more truthful size comparison than Mercator.

Evolution of Mapping with Technology

• Late 1960s: Satellites began providing navigation data globally, revolutionizing mapping.
• Global Positioning System (GPS) reduced reliance on paper maps.
• Shift in map projection focus from navigation to aesthetic and design considerations.

Modern Cartography

• Despite the shift, Mercator projection is still used for detailed views (e.g., city maps).
• Distortion is less significant at close range but problematic on a world scale.
• National Geographic adopted the Winkle Triple Projection in 1998 for better size and shape balance.
• There is no universally correct projection; each serves different purposes.

Conclusion

• The best way to view Earth remains a globe, recognizing the trade-offs of flat maps.
• Fun tool: thetruesizeof.com to visualize country distortions.
• Acknowledgment of Mike Bostock's contributions to the topic.