World NGS Explorer Wall Map LAMINATED

Encapsulated version of a small, colourful political map (82 x 51.5cm / 32" x 20" approx.) with the NGS’s usual presentation of the world within an oval frame providing an alternative to the more traditional wall maps. Countries are in dark colours, contrasted against light blue oceans.

The map has relief shading and gives names of some mountain ranges, deserts, rivers, etc., with peak heights shown in feet. In USA, Canada and Australia internal administrative boundaries and names of states/provinces are shown, (within the US most are abbreviated).

Clocks show time difference from GMT (but without the map indicating the exact geographical area covered by each time zone). Panels list the world’s largest 15 countries by area (in square miles) and population, as well as 15 largest urban conurbations by population. Projection is Winkel Tripel, which reduces distortion of land masses as they near the poles.

*LAMINATED and ENCAPSULATED WALL MAPS:*
- *laminated* wall maps have a thin layer of plastic usually applied to the printed side only. They can be written on with suitable marker pens without any damage to the map but, unless they have been laminated on both sides, they are not damp-proof.

- *encapsulated* wall maps are sealed between two sheets of plastic. They are more rigid and heavier than laminated maps of the same size. They are damp-proof and do not crinkle in humid conditions. Encapsulation gives the map a shiny surface, similar to being displayed behind glass.

- *please note:* many publishers and retailers often use these two terms interchangeably. Our map titles and descriptions follow the definitions provided above.