Datums and Map Projections: For Remote Sensing, GIS and Surveying

by Jonathan Iliffe

New methods of acquiring spatial data and the advent of geographic information systems (GIS) for handling and manipulating data mean that we no longer must rely on paper maps from a single source, but can acquire, combine, and customize spatial data as needed. To ensure quality results, however, one must fully understand the diverse coordinate frameworks upon which the data are based.

Datums and Map Projections provides clear, accessible explanations of the terminology, relationships, transformations, and computations involved in combining data from different sources. The first half of the book focuses on datums, exploring different coordinate systems and datums, including two- and three-dimensional representations of Earth coordinates and vertical datums. After an overview of the global positioning system (GPS), the author introduces the fundamentals of map projections and examines the different types. He then presents models and procedures for transforming directly between data sets. The final chapter presents case studies of projects that illustrate the types of problems often encountered in practice.

Newcomers to the field will welcome this treatment that, instead of detailed mathematics, uses lucid explanations and numerous examples to unravel the complexities of the subject. For more experienced readers, the book is a valuable reference that answers specific questions and imparts a better understanding of transformation operations and principles.

Features

160 pages, Paperback

First published June 22, 2000

Reviews

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a bit confused about the topic so I went to my local university library to study up. I found a book that really filled me in on this topic. It is a bit heady with math and stuff but you can skip those paragraphs. It covers datums, projections, coordinate systems, coordinate reference systems, GPS, and all the wonderful math involved in transformations and conversions between datums and coordinate systems.

[Dennis Davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superior overall graphic design. Map graphics and diagrams are legible, visually interesting, and designed for consistency within each category of graphics (maps, diagrams, tables, and process flow charts).

[Michal Paszkiewicz · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent read that will explain everything you need to know about datums and map projections. The explanation of how GPS works at the end was also highly informative.

The book is fairly technical, but readable without much prior knowledge.