Advances in small-scale map projection research

Abstract

The main objective of this paper is to review previous and current trends in small-scale map projection research, and to discuss the work that has been done by this author in relation to similar work by others. Attention is focused on three issues: (a) evaluation of map projection distortion, (b) development of low-error map projections, (c) automated (and semi-automated) map projection selection. It is hoped that this paper will give the reader a good impression of the marked evolution of map projection science over the last forty years, of changes in the way map projections are used (or will be used in the near future), and of the important role the rapidly increasing, widespread use of computers has played in this process.

Keywords

• map projection research
• distortion measures
• low-error map projections
• map projection selection