The cupola projection – an asymmetric equal-area world map

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this article a new equal-area projection for small scale world maps is presented, with north-south asymmetry. The equations used form a system including well-known equivalent projections designed by Lambert, Hammer and Wagner. A new criterion is used to compare the quality of projections, concentrating on angular distortion on continents on the far side of the map. For Hammer's and Wagner's projection a version is presented which is having less distorted continents than the original versions. The final projection is named the Cupola Projection. It is having the Pacific Ocean at the far sides of the map and therefore less land close to the border of the map than would be the case with other central meridians. Due to its asymmetry landmasses near the borders of the map are less distorted than is the case with other frequently used equal-area world maps.