Russell Projection and Mercator Projection by Harmonic Equations Comparison Study

One of the main key points in mapping is the projection system used. The accuracy depends on many things like data source and accuracy, projection system, and the way of mapping. Many problems appeared in using the traditional projection system (distance distortion, scale factor, …, etc.), which can affect the spatial accuracy of the produced map. A new method has been implemented for map projection based on harmonic equations. It is different in the way of creation the zones. Main latitude and central longitude play the main steps in the projection system, also, the isometric coordinates and front and back algorithms up to 12th edge of series (1, 2, 5, 6). This paper presenting the expansion of the algorithms used in projection of Russell to 12th edge of series and compares between Russell and Mercator projections using harmonic equations in three regions distributed from the equator to the parallel 62° N. Also, distance distortions in the local system in the main projections of Russell and Mercator projections have been studied. The results show that Russell projection has less distortion in curvature near the equator than Mercator projection. The distance distortions in local system with the new method are less than in the traditional methods. The new method proved that it is better than the traditional methods in mapping.