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Understanding Map Projections

Understanding Map Projections

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GEOCENTRIC COORDINATE SYSTEM<br />

Geographic coordinates are described as X,Y, and Z values in a<br />

geocentric coordinate system.<br />

DESCRIPTION<br />

The geocentric coordinate system is not a map<br />

projection. The earth is modeled as a sphere or<br />

spheroid in a right-handed X,Y,Z system.<br />

The X-axis points to the prime meridian, the Y-axis<br />

points 90 degrees away in the equatorial plane, and<br />

the Z-axis points in the direction of the North Pole.<br />

USES AND APPLICATIONS<br />

The geocentric coordinate system is used internally<br />

as an interim system for several geographic (datum)<br />

transformation methods.<br />

58 • <strong>Understanding</strong> <strong>Map</strong> <strong>Projections</strong>

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