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

Table of Contents:
INTRODUCTION Background Coordinates and Datums TWO- AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL COORDINATE SYSTEMS Introduction Spherical Coordinates Spheroidal Coordinates Cartesian Coordinates HEIGHT AND THE GEOID The Geoid Reference Surfaces for Height GLOBAL, REGIONAL, AND LOCAL DATUMS Global Datums Local and Regional Datums THE GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEM Introduction System Overview Positioning with Codes Differential GPS Using Codes GPS Phase Meaurements ASPECTS OF DATUM TRANSFORMATIONS Introduction Knowledge of Separation, N Knowledge of Height, H Knowledge of Datum Transformation Parameters Datum Transformations for Precise Applications FUNDAMENTALS OF MAP PROJECTIONS Introduction Spheres and Spheroids Grids and Graticules Scale Factor Developable Surfaces Preserved Features Computational Aspects Designing a Projection CYLINDRICAL PROJECTIONS Cylindrical Equidistant Projection Cylindrical Equal Area Projection Mercator Projection Transverse Mercator Projection Oblique Mercator Projection AZIMUTHAL PROJECTIONS General Azimuthal Projection Azimuthal Equidistant Projection Azimuthal Equal Area Projection Azimuthal Stereographic (Conformal) Projection Gnomonic Projection CONIC PROJECTIONS General Conic Projection Conic Equidistant Projection Albers (Conic) Equal Area Projection Lambert Conformal Conic Projection SUMMARY OF INFORMATION REQUIRED Formulae Parameters DIRECT TRANSFORMATIONS Compatibility of Coordinate Systems Ground Control Plane Transformations Unknown Projections: Measuring from Maps CASE STUDIES Transformation of GPS Data into a Local Datum A Projection for Australia Establishment of Maritime Boundaries on a Projection Two-Dimensional Transformation of Satellite Imagery Two-Dimensional Transformation GPS Data Determining the Parameters of an Unknown Projection APPENDICES Spherical Coordinates Basic Geometry of the Ellipsoid Determination of Transformation Parameters by Least Squares REFERENCES INDEX