Map Projections

Azimuthal (polar)

A map which shows true compass directions; longitude lines are straight and latitude lines are circles; distorts shape and size more toward the outer edges.

Robinson

A projection that maintains overall shapes and relative positions without extreme distortion. It does not maintain completely accurate area, shape, distance, or direction, but it minimizes errors in each.

Mollweide

A type of homolographic map projection in which the surface of the earth is represented as an ellipse, with the equator and parallels of latitude as straight lines; Shows size of area relatively well, oval shaped, used to show direction of things, distorts shape and direction

Mercator

The Mercator projection is particularly useful for navigation because it maintains accurate direction. Mercator projections are famous for their distortion in area that makes landmasses at the poles appear oversized.