Meridiaanikaardid

Meridiaanikaardid, also known as meridian maps, are cartographical representations that depict the Earth's prime meridian and other meridians of longitude. These maps are distinct from standard navigational charts which primarily focus on latitude and longitude lines for determining position. Meridian maps often emphasize the historical and geographical significance of these lines, particularly the prime meridian which serves as the reference point for Greenwich Mean Time and global time zones.

The concept of a prime meridian dates back to ancient times, but its standardization is a more recent development. Various historical prime meridians existed, often passing through significant observatories or cities. The adoption of the Greenwich Meridian in 1884 at the International Meridian Conference was a pivotal moment in global cartography and navigation, leading to the widespread use of meridian maps that incorporate this standard.

Meridian maps can be used for educational purposes, illustrating concepts of global geography, timekeeping, and the history of cartography. They may also be of interest to geographers, historians, and amateur cartographers. While not as commonly encountered as standard world maps, they offer a unique perspective on the Earth's spatial organization based on longitudinal divisions. The visual representation of meridians can help in understanding concepts like the Coriolis effect and the division of the world into time zones.