Is There a Map Projection Where Distances Remain Constant at All Latitudes?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the search for a map projection that maintains constant distances across all latitudes, specifically highlighting the limitations of the Mercator Projection. The term "equidistant projection" is established as the correct terminology for this type of map, which can be conic or azimuthal and is suitable for limited areas. However, achieving an equidistant projection for the entire Earth presents challenges, particularly near the poles, where distortion increases significantly. The user expresses difficulty in finding high-quality examples of such maps.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of map projections, specifically equidistant projections.
  • Familiarity with geographic coordinate systems.
  • Knowledge of the Mercator Projection and its limitations.
  • Basic skills in using mapping software or tools.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research various types of equidistant projections, including conic and azimuthal.
  • Explore software tools that support equidistant map projections.
  • Investigate the mathematical principles behind map projection distortions.
  • Look for high-quality resources or datasets that provide equidistant maps.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for cartographers, geographers, and software developers involved in mapping applications who require precise distance measurements across various latitudes.

DaveC426913
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I want a projection of Earth where distances are undistorted. i.e. 10 degrees of latitude at the equator is exactly the same map distance as 10 degrees of latitude at the Arctic Circle.

As a disqualified example, the Mercator Projection has map distance increasing with increasing latitude.

I don't care how this distorts the landmasses and oceans, I simply need something with equal gridmarks that can be used in a software program.

Does this type of projection have a name? I'm going to go looking for world maps in this format.
 
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They're just called equidistant - you can have a whole range of equidistant projections, conic/azimuthal/etc for a limited area you just have to pick the points you want to fix.

I don't know how you would get an equidistant for the whole Earth - it's a little tricky near the poles.

edit see http://www.colorado.edu/geography/gcraft/notes/mapproj/mapproj_f.html for examples
 
NobodySpecial said:
They're just called equidistant - you can have a whole range of equidistant projections, conic/azimuthal/etc for a limited area you just have to pick the points you want to fix.

I don't know how you would get an equidistant for the whole Earth - it's a little tricky near the poles.

Yes, it tends toward infinite horizontal zoom near the poles. That's OK.

I'm having trouble finding any but the cheesiest of maps, as if drawn by a grade-schooler.
 
Last edited:

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