Natural Earth

Natural Earth is a public domain map dataset available at 1:10 million (1 cm = 100 km), 1:50 million, and 1:110 million map scales. Natural Earth's data set contains integrated vector and raster mapping data.[1]

Example of a public domain map in the Natural Earth database

The original authors of the map dataset are Tom Patterson and Nathaniel Vaughn Kelso, but Natural Earth has expanded to be a collaboration of many volunteers and is supported by the North American Cartographic Information Society (NACIS).[2] It is free for public use in any type of project.

The dataset includes the fictitious 1-meter-square Null Island at 0°N 0°E for error-checking purposes.[3]

Public domain data and software

All versions of Natural Earth raster and vector map data on the Natural Earth website are in the public domain. Anyone may use the maps in any manner, including modifying the content and design.

References
  1. Natural Earth project website
  2. Natural Earth Contributors
  3. Kurgan, Laura (2013). Close Up at a Distance: Mapping, Technology and Politics. New York: Zone Books. p. 157. ISBN 9781935408284.
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