Description
Unlike the orthographic projection, this perspective projection views the globe from a finite distance. This perspective gives the overall effect of the view from a satellite.
Learn about the Orthographic projection
Projection method
Planar perspective projection—viewed from a specified distance above the surface. All aspects are either circular or an area less than a full hemisphere.
- Polar aspect—meridians are straight lines radiating from the center, and the lines of latitude are projected as concentric circles that become closer toward the edge of the globe.
- Equatorial aspect—the central meridian and the equator are straight lines. The other meridians and parallels are elliptical arcs.
Point of contact
A single point located anywhere on the globe.
Linear graticules
- All aspects—the central meridian of the projection.
- Equatorial aspect—the equator.
- Polar aspect—all meridians.
Properties
Shape
Minimal distortion near the center; maximal distortion near the edge.
Area
Minimal distortion near the center; maximal distortion near the edge.
Direction
True direction from the central point.
Distance
The radial scale decreases with distance from the center.
Limitations
Limited to a view less than 90° from the central point.
Uses and applications
Uses of this projection are aesthetic more than technical. The most commonly used aspect for this purpose is the oblique.
Parameters
Desktop
- False Easting
- False Northing
- Longitude of center
- Latitude of center
- Height
Workstation
- Radius of the sphere of reference
- Height of perspective point above sphere
- Longitude of center of projection
- Latitude of center of projection
- False Easting (meters)
- False Northing (meters)