How Practical Are Minimum-Error Map Projections?

Abstract

Ever since the Mercator projection gained wide acceptance for general geographic world maps, there have been attempts to replace it because of its serious area dis tortion. Most minimum-error projections, however, are difficult or nearly impossible to construct without a modern computer. Does this negate their use? The answer is probably yes if most users need to digitize maps or do their own programming of formulas, but no if the goal is to make the map easier for measurement of distance, area, and shape. We too often s till choose projections to suit pre-computer criteria involving ease of cons truction, rather than to meet the needs of the map user. This paper reviews the practicality of minimum-error map proj ections and illustrates a wide range of minimum-error projections.