Mercator (1512–1594) mapped the world with the rhumb-line projection and helped shape modern navigation. He also built globes, instruments, and a vast atlas.
The UN General Assembly has endorsed a non-binding move to shift from the Mercator projection to the Equal Earth map to better reflect continental sizes. The vote saw 164 members in favour with the United States abstaining or opposing; several countries express concerns about disputed territories and implications for regional shading.
The United Nations has endorsed a shift toward the Equal Earth projection, encouraging adoption over the Mercator map. The resolution, supported by 164 countries, stops short of mandating change but calls for broader use in education, media and policy discussions. The United States opposes the move, with concerns over disputed territories.
The UN General Assembly has voted 164–1 to encourage use of equal-area map projections, led by Togo and backed by the African Union. The non-binding resolution recommends the Equal Earth projection for schools, governments and tech companies. The United States cast the sole vote against; six states abstained.