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SpatialNews.com Press Release
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC RELAUNCHES ITS ONLINE MAPMACHINE
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Trying to locate a place you’ve heard about in the news? In search of a map
for that homework assignment? Need a topographic map to better understand
the terrain of a hike you’re planning? National Geographic’s online
MapMachine, http://www.nationalgeographic.com/mapmachine, is the best
address on the Web for all of your mapping needs.
The MapMachine has been completely redesigned to give users better access
to a treasure trove of maps from the world’s mapping leader. Site visitors
can view hundreds of maps -- political and street maps, historic maps from
the Library of Congress, USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery. National
Geographic joined forces once again with GIS-leader ESRI to supercharge the
site, powered by ESRI’s ArcWeb Services. This technology allows consumers
to access geographic data from a variety of sources, including the U.S.
Census Bureau, NASA, NOAA and World Wildlife Fund. Visitors can view
regularly updated and unique information not found on other mapping sites.
New tools allow users to customize maps to meet personal needs.
“Technology has revolutionized mapmaking, enabling map users to become map
makers,” said Allen Carroll, National Geographic’s chief cartographer.
“Students, teachers and map lovers can better understand and appreciate the
world around us -- from the trails to the stars.”
Some of the key features and resources on the relaunched site include:
- New content -- The site has added aerial imagery provided by
GlobeXplorer™ that allows you to zoom in on your house or another landmark,
as well as seamless USGS topographic maps of the United States, especially
suited for the outdoor enthusiast.
- User-friendly tools -- Informational layers on each map, showing roads,
political boundaries and place names, can be turned on and off. A suite of
tools allows users to measure distances, pan over the map, zoom in and out
and label key map features, such as Grandma’s house or a trailhead. Once a
map is customized, it can be saved, e-mailed to a friend or purchased in a
wall-map-sized, high-quality print.
- “Quick Map Search” -- This improved function allows users to enter the
name of a city, country, region, continent or U.S. ZIP code to find a list
of several maps relevant to the area. For example, type in “Atlanta, Ga.,”
and a list of 18 maps will appear, including aerial, street, income,
weather and historical maps -- as well as a city map from 1871.
- More map categories -- Users can search and browse several different
categories, including countries and continents, conservation and ecology,
outdoor recreation, space, trip planning, historical maps, and maps geared
for students and educators.
- Online Map Store -- Users can purchase hundreds of National Geographic
wall, trail and digital mapping products, along with atlases and globes.
Visitors can also create their own atlas, aerial and topographic maps by
zooming in on key areas and personalizing with labels. These maps can be
ordered in a variety of sizes and formats for mail delivery.
- Maps in the News and More -- The site highlights maps of places in the
news. The flags-and-facts feature provides country profiles, and many other
useful features round out the engaging site.
WHEN: National Geographic’s newly enhanced MapMachine is now
live.
WHERE: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/mapmachine
CONTACT: Cindy Beidel
(202) 862-5286
cbeidel@ngs.org
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