Ancient maps get a high-tech facelift

The National Library of Australia (NLA) and geospatial technology company Esri Australia have put together a high-tech exhibit detailing the history and current state of mapping technology.

The exhibition, Mapping Our World: Terra Incognita to Australia, will allow visitors and web browsers to view and learn more about some of the world’s oldest and rarest maps.

Interactive displays use geographic information system (GIS) technology to provide insight into old maps and cartographic charts, as well as historical context and behind-the-scenes information.

Included in the exhibition is a time-lapse animation of the changing cartography of maps of Australia, including the rare 1663 Dutch map of New Holland and Captain Cook’s 1770 depiction.

Along with the historical maps, the museum is also displaying a real-time air traffic tracking map of the world from Esri Australia.

NLA curator of maps Dr Martin Woods said by combining the old with the new, the exhibition serves as a rare look into the evolving role of geography in society.

“Many of us think our 21st-century geospatial industry is only as old as digital technology - but the basic principles have been important to mankind’s development for millennia,” he said. “Behind the computer and visualisation technologies we use today is an ancient history of people developing location systems that help them explore the world and navigate life.”

Featured maps can be viewed online here.

Pictured: A real-time aircraft traffic map that tracks the positions of planes travelling around the world.