Maps and Cartography

Maps and cartography are essential tools in geography that enable us to visualize and understand the Earth’s surface and its features.

Cartography is the art and science of creating maps, which involves the use of sophisticated technology and techniques to accurately represent the Earth’s physical and cultural features.

Maps provide a visual representation of the world, allowing us to identify patterns, explore spatial relationships, and navigate through unfamiliar terrain.

Campaign GPS antenna on Kīlauea's south flank at Pu‘ukapukapu inside Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.

Improving the Accuracy of GPS and GNSS

Mark Altaweel

To improve accuracy and signaling of GPS and GNSS, a new technique that depends on ground-based systems has been developed.

An aerial image with white dots showing the location of planted trees.

Mapping Trees During Planting

GIS Contributor

STA Logger, developed by TerraLab, can be fitted with tree planters to map the location of newly planted trees.

Two images showing the front and back of a map rolled out from a walking cane with a silver handle.

Walking Cane Maps

Caitlin Dempsey

Walking cane maps, first created in 1893, featured retractable maps in cane handles. These souvenirs combined practicality with novelty.

A map from the 16th century showing Mexico around the Gulf of Mexico.

The Map Myth of Bermeja Island

Caitlin Dempsey

For hundreds of years, cartographers mapped Bermeja Island off the coast of Mexico, but no evidence has been found to prove its existence.

A cropped view of a map with a north arrow in bold black with the letter "N" on top of it. A section of Texas and Louisiana can be seen at the top of the image.

Should Maps Include a North Arrow? Exploring the Debate

Caitlin Dempsey

Do all maps need a north arrow?