Eckert I Projection
Apr 3,2026

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Introduction

Eckert I Projection is a pseudocylindrical compromise map projection proposed by German cartographer Max Eckert in 1906. As the first of six projections in the Eckert series, it features a highly distinctive geometric structure: meridians are equally spaced straight lines that are interrupted at the equator, while the central meridian is a straight line only half the length of the projected equator. Parallels are uniformly distributed straight lines perpendicular to the central meridian, and the poles are represented as straight lines half the length of the equator. The projection is neither conformal nor equal-area, with scale correct only along the 47°10′ north and south parallels.

Projection Basic

Eckert I Projection is a pseudocylindrical compromise projection proposed by German cartographer Max Eckert in 1906. As the first of six projections in the Eckert series, it features a highly distinctive geometric structure: meridians are equally spaced straight lines interrupted at the equator, with the central meridian a straight line only half the length of the projected equator. Parallels are uniformly distributed straight lines perpendicular to the central meridian, and the poles are represented as straight lines half the length of the equator. The projection is neither conformal nor equal-area, with scale correct only along the 47°10′ north and south parallels, and distortion constant along any given parallel and meridian.

Pros

Mathematical simplicity: With all parallels and meridians represented as straight lines, the computational model is exceptionally simple and clear. The projection parameters require only the central meridian and false easting/northing, making it easy to implement and understand.
Uniform parallel distribution: The equal spacing of parallels ensures predictable distortion patterns along any given latitude, and the scale remains constant along any parallel—between any pair of parallels equidistant from the Equator, and along any given meridian.
Unique aesthetic novelty: The projection’s broken equator and polar lines create an unusual, unconventional world map appearance that may serve specific artistic or illustrative purposes where standard map forms are deliberately avoided.

Cons

Severe equatorial discontinuity: The interruption of meridians at the equator introduces excessive distortion along this critical latitude. Tissot indicatrices are of indeterminate shape at the equator, making distortion impossible to quantify and creating an awkward visual break in tropical regions.
Comprehensive distortion profile: As a projection that is neither conformal nor equal-area, Eckert I distorts shapes, areas, distances, directions, and angles simultaneously. While scale is correct along 47°10′ north and south, no point on the map is entirely free of distortion.
Extremely limited practical utility: Major cartographic authorities explicitly state that this projection has “no practical use other than making a world map with an unusual shape.” It is not recommended for any serious thematic, navigational, or analytical application.
Ellipsoidal incompatibility: Eckert I is supported only on spheres. When an ellipsoid is used, the semimajor axis serves as the radius, and distortion properties cannot be maintained—further limiting its applicability in modern geodetic contexts.

Application Scenario

Due to its pronounced limitations in area, shape, and directional accuracy, the Eckert I Projection finds virtually no application in serious cartographic work. Its sole documented use is as a “novelty map”—creating world maps with deliberately unusual or unconventional appearances for artistic, experimental, or illustrative purposes. Some sources note its potential use in “designing a world map with an unusual shape,” where aesthetic novelty takes precedence over geographic fidelity. The projection may occasionally appear in historical discussions of map projection development or as a pedagogical example of early 20th-century pseudocylindrical designs. However, for any practical application—including thematic mapping, geographic information systems, navigation, education, or scientific visualization—cartographers overwhelmingly recommend alternative projections such as Eckert IV or VI (for equal-area requirements) or Robinson/Winkel Tripel (for general-purpose world maps). In modern GIS platforms like ArcGIS and QGIS, Eckert I remains available primarily for completeness rather than active use.