Using the same php code that rotates my banners, I have begun to make my next generation of maps. Since I am not actively making too many new maps at the moment, I’ve decided to start dabbling with methods of displaying my maps.

Five files were placed on-line for nearly each map I made in 2006: the full-size map (18,000×12,000 pixels reduced to 1,200×800), a zoom-to the center (reduced from 4200×4200 pixels to 800×800 pixels), a direct zoom-in to the center (at 800×800 pixels), and two details picked randomly from somewhere on the map (Harvard Quilt – NE linked for visual explanation).

By copying these various files to new folders on my website I’ve developed a means to randomly select any of the five different files. The result is a series of interactive web pages that are defined by geography and type of cartographic detail. The main drawback to the php script I am using is that you never see the name of the map you are looking at. Paradoxically, this also means you really are lost in the maps. A compass will not help you much :)