Planetary Mapping: A historical overview

Abstract

The development of the methods of visualization, control, and content of planetary maps goes in parallel with terrestrial ones. Both reflect technological, scientific, sociopolitical, and graphic design changes. However, while terrestrial maps are ubiquitous and show abstract or iconic representations of the Earth features, planetary surfaces are much more frequently represented with uninterpreted images, despite the wealth of planetary spatial data. In this paper, we highlight the key maps and map series made before the space age and the new cartographic methods introduced in the early 1960s when rectified, geologic and airbrush maps, and space-borne planetary photography, revolutionized the way we can look at planetary surfaces. This chapter also highlights the most recent novel approaches in planetary cartography.