NASA – “Earth As Art”

I so totally wish this were a large coffee-table art book printed on high quality archival paper…. I would BUY this…

via NASA – "Earth As Art".

In 1960, the United States put its first Earth-observing environmental satellite into orbit around the planet. Over the decades, these satellites have provided invaluable information, and the vantage point of space has provided new perspectives on Earth. This book celebrates Earth’s aesthetic beauty in the patterns, shapes, colors, and textures of the land, oceans, ice, and atmosphere. The book features 75 stunning images of Earth from the Terra, Landsat 5, Landsat 7, EO-1, and Aqua satellites. Sensors on these satellites can measure light outside of the visible range, so the images show more than what is visible to the naked eye. The images are intended for viewing enjoyment rather than scientific interpretation. The beauty of Earth is clear, and the artistry ranges from the surreal to the sublime.

“Earth As Art” E-Book @ nasa (PDF download).

Historical Maps Collection – Old Infographic Design

As an add-on to the previous posting, I found this site, and this fantastic infographic about the principle mountains and rivers of the world. Modern-day infographic creators could learn a lot from this:

(map) Infographic showing the major mountains and rivers of the world

Infographic showing the major mountains and rivers of the world

The Principal Mountains and Rivers of the World compiled from the Latest Authorities. New York. Schonberg & Co. 1864. – David Rumsey Historical Map Collection.

Old Maps Online

Link

This is a pretty cool site — especially for map lovers — the site has collected and digitized historical maps and presents them in a google maps sort of fashion. You can select which map you want to view from the sidebar for the location you’re viewing.

Old Maps Online.