Thematic Map

Thematic Maps are maps that reflect a certain theme of an area. Thematic maps are used to show vegetation, land use, soil type, etc., by using different colors or patterns. This map shows the surface temperature of the ocean through color-coding.

map shows colour-coded ocean surface temperature based on satellite observations

Topographic Map

Topographic maps use symbols and coloring to show attention to the various shapes of an area. Relief is shown through the use of contour lines. This is a map from the US Geological Survey. They began producing topographic maps in the 1880's. This map was taken in 1915 of the San Francisco Bay area.

Remote Sensing

Remote sensing maps are maps created through the use of satellites. These types of maps are mainly used for gauging areas affected by disasters such as hurricanes, droughts and flooding. This map was taken by a sattellite to gauge drought indicators.

Planimetric maps

Planimetric maps show only the horizonal features of an area such as geographic things, natural and physical features and roads, buildings, water, etc. This planimetric map is used in preliminary designs for transportation projects.

Mental Map

Mental maps are a guide of the paths we go through in life. These soldiers are looking at the map for what? who to conquer next? Carving our their piece of the world? The dimensions of a country may be influenced by war coverage through the media or through the person's own perception of how they see the size of their country.