Where can I get maps of the US online?
United States Geological Survey (USGS)
The USGS offers information about online maps and aerial photographs. At the National Map web site, you can view high-resolution aerial photographs or satellite imagery of the information that is currently represented on topographic maps, including surface elevation data, feature data for bodies of water and land boundaries, and geographic names for physical and cultural features of the US. The National Map also uses data from the National Transportation Atlas Database to display airports, seaports, railroads, and roads.
The USGS also provides online maps of the US via the National Atlas Online. Using the Interactive Map Browser, you can create a map of any area of the US, including basic reference information (cities, counties, etc.) or your choice of other data, such as agricultural, geological, water, biological, transportation, or social data.
TerraServer, a cooperative research effort by USGS and Microsoft, provides free access to digital aerial photographs of the US. To view an aerial photograph of an address or a specific longitude and latitude coordinate, visit the TerraServer-USA web site.
For information about buying USGS maps in your area, visit the USGS Store Map Locator, available in the left navigation bar of the USGS Store home page.
US Federal Depository Program
The US Federal Depository Program distributes information, including print and online maps, to libraries across the nation. All Indiana University campuses have libraries that serve as depositories except for IU East. To locate the closest depository library, check the Federal Depository Library Directory.
If you have questions, email libgpd@indiana.edu .
For additional information about cartographic materials in IU's libraries,
consult library staff on your campus or contact the Geography and Map Library
at IU Bloomington via email at libgm@indiana.edu or
at the Geography
and Map Library Home Page.
Google Maps & Google Earth
Google Maps is a free mapping technology provided by Google. Google Maps provides street, satellite, and combined maps of the US and Canada, as well as many other locations around the world. Using the Google search interface, driving directions and information about landmarks can be displayed directly on the map.
Google Earth is a similar service, which displays geographic information in a 3D environment. Unlike Google Maps, Google Earth is an application which must first be downloaded and installed on your computer.
Also see:
Last modified on July 29, 2008.
