Understanding Map Projections and Coordinate Systems

Description

Accurately representing features found on the earth's three-dimensional surface on a flat piece of paper or computer screen is a huge logistical problem-one whose solution involves mathematics, human ingenuity, and ever-evolving technology. In a GIS, map projections and coordinate systems are used to map real-world features. This six-module course introduces the fundamental concepts behind map projections and coordinate systems. Essential characteristics of all map projections—aspect, perspective, and distortion—are discussed. The emphasis is on theory, but students gain practical experience working with ArcGIS software to apply map projections, modify their properties, and manipulate data stored in different coordinate systems. This course does not teach the mathematics behind individual map projections.

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for students and GIS professionals who want to understand the properties of different map projections and coordinate systems.

Learn How To

• Explain map projection distortion.
• Define map projection plane and aspect.
• Set map projection parameters.
• List strengths and weaknesses of different map projections.
• Describe horizontal datums.
• Understand the properties of different coordinate systems.

To complete course exercises, you need the following software:

• ArcGIS 9.2 for Desktop or ArcGIS 9.3 for Desktop (ArcView, ArcEditor, or ArcInfo)

• Sizing Up the Earth: Discovering the earth's shape and size; Refining the earth's shape; Establishing location
• Flattening the Earth: Birth of the map projection; Developable surfaces; Refining the map projection
• Understanding Aspect and Perspective: Aspect for cylindrical projections; Aspect for planar projections; Aspect for conic projections; Perspective; Classifying projections
• Understanding and Controlling Distortion: Understanding distortion; Examining tangents and secants; Projection parameters; Choosing a projection
• Geographic and Planar Coordinate Systems: What is a coordinate system?; Commonly-used coordinate systems
• Introduction to Datums: Basics of datums; Datum transformations

Students should be familiar with basic GIS concepts. Familiarity with ArcGIS software is beneficial.