WASHINGTON (Aug. 27, 2014)—To mark 100 years of cartography at National Geographic in 2015, the Society, one of the world’s preeminent cartographic publishers, is releasing the tenth edition of its award-winning signature atlas, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ATLAS OF THE WORLD (National Geographic Books; ISBN 978-1-4262-1354-0; on sale Sept. 30, 2014; $195), this fall. National Geographic established a cartographic division in 1915 under the leadership of its first chief cartographer, Albert H. Bumstead.
The critically acclaimed, large-format NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ATLAS OF THE WORLD, TENTH EDITION is an invaluable and easy-to-read resource to understanding today’s dynamic, interconnected world. In creating the tenth edition atlas, National Geographic’s cartographic designers, geographic editors and researchers examined the latest satellite imagery and authoritative data from a variety of sources, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), to accurately visualize continental landscapes, the entire Earth and the vastness of space.
This new edition contains more maps and indexed place names than any previous edition. Every map has been newly researched and updated and reflects the latest changes in the world. The atlas also boasts the largest and most comprehensive collection of political maps ever published by National Geographic. Completely updated from the ninth edition and expanded by 16 pages, the political maps section features new maps of Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales, three detailed regional maps of Australia, expanded coverage of Africa, and a map of the strategically important area around the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing North Africa and Southern Europe. In addition, special sections are dedicated to the oceans, space, and flags and facts. The space section covers the latest developments in space exploration, with newly compiled maps of the moon and Mars and spectacular imagery. The expanded index contains more than 150,000 place names.
A World Themes section at the front of the atlas comprises 20 thematic spreads with illustrated maps, informational graphics and narrative that engages and informs readers about rapidly changing global issues. The spreads include population, urbanization, oceans, fresh water, climate, biodiversity, human influences, economy, energy, transportation, migration, health, cultures, the human condition, natural hazards and agriculture.
Enclosed in every atlas is a free, double-sided world map. One side depicts the most recent political world; the reverse side is the first general world map published as a supplement in National Geographic magazine in December 1922.
National Geographic maps, renowned for a century for their accuracy, detail and beauty, have won more awards and received more acclaim than any other U.S. map publisher. National Geographic atlases are recognized for their map design, high-resolution imagery, innovative treatment of geographic themes and use of state-of-the-art mapping technology. Previous National Geographic atlases have been honored with map design and printing awards from such organizations as American Congress on Surveying and Mapping (Best Atlas); British Cartographic Society (Bartholomew Award); Cartography and Geographic Information Society (Best Atlas); International Cartographic Conference (Beijing Exhibit); International Map Industry Association (Gold Award); and Printing Industries of America (Premier Print Award).
Through its 360 maps, 70 charts, 56 photographs and 300 diagrams and illustrations, NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ATLAS OF THE WORLD, TENTH EDITION will educate users about the state of the world and beyond, such as hotspots in the news, trending travel destinations and places that inspire curiosity. The atlas provides depth and context to world events and critical issues making headlines. It connects readers to global trends and happenings and is a must-have for every family library.
About Juan José Valdés
Atlas spokesperson Juan José Valdés is National Geographic’s geographer and National Geographic Maps’ director of editorial and research. He guides and assists the Map Policy Committee in setting border representations, disputed territories and naming conventions for National Geographic. He is also responsible for ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the Society’s maps and map products. Born in Havana, Cuba, and later raised in the United States, Valdés oversaw the development of National Geographic’s groundbreaking new map of Cuba.
About National Geographic Books & Home Entertainment
National Geographic Books & Home Entertainment creates and distributes books, videos and other print and digital media that inform, engage and entertain diverse audiences about our world. Annually, the group publishes more than 125 new books for adults, families and kids and releases 250+ new DVDs and digital downloads of the Society’s films and TV shows, and these National Geographic titles are available in more than 35 local-language editions. While special photographic and film collections, travel books, nature shows, birding guides and atlases are a core focus of the Society’s products, books and videos on subjects as diverse as animals, the human mind, history, world cultures and the cosmos are also produced. For more information, visit facebook.com/NatGeoBooks and nationalgeographic.com/books.