Matching the Map Projection to the Need

Abstract

A globe is the only representation of the Earth that does not distort its geometry—except, of course, its size. Unfortunately, for many purposes a globe is an inconvenient way to display geographical relationships. Significant concepts, such as constant directions, shortest routes, and equal distances are difficult to measure on a curving surface. Often we want to see the whole world, but in looking at a globe we see only half. Finally, unless the globe can be turned in all directions, it is difficult to look directly at a region of interest.