Cylindrical Projection
Cylindrical Projection refers to a method in cartography for representing the curved surface of the Earth or other spherical bodies on a flat map by projecting its features onto a cylinder. The resulting map can be unrolled into a plane, creating a rectangular grid.
In Depth Explanation of Cylindrical Projection
Cylindrical Projection derives from the geometrical transformation of projecting the features of a sphere onto the surface of a cylinder. This method was notably used by Gerardus Mercator, a Flemish cartographer, in the 16th century. The Mercator Projection, a type of cylindrical projection, became particularly influential for its ability to represent lines of constant course, or rhumb lines, as straight segments, which greatly aided in marine navigation. The etymology of this term combines 'cylinder,' from the Greek 'kylindros,' meaning roll or roller, and 'projection,' from the Latin 'proicere,' meaning to throw forward.
In modern cartography, cylindrical projections continue to be used, though they are often adapted to mitigate distortions, particularly at the poles. Variants such as the Transverse Mercator and the Miller Cylindrical Projection offer different balances of area, shape, distance, and direction accuracy while retaining the benefits of the cylindrical approach.
A Practical Example of the Cylindrical Projection
An exemplary historical use of the cylindrical projection is the Mercator Projection, created by Gerardus Mercator in 1569. This projection became the standard for nautical maps because it preserved angles and directions, which were essential for sea navigation. Although it distorts distances and areas, especially near the poles, the practical navigation advantages it offered had a profound impact on maritime exploration and trade, significantly shaping the way the world was mapped during the Age of Discovery.