Data Sources
This page documents the geographic data sources used by SizeOnMap.com, the licensing terms that apply, and the limitations you should be aware of when interpreting the maps.
OpenStreetMap
What we use:
Base map tiles and underlying global geography
Source:OpenStreetMap.org
License:Open Database License (ODbL)
Notes:
- Community-maintained data worldwide
- Accuracy varies by region coverage
- May include disputed boundaries
geoBoundaries
What we use:
Country-level (ADM0) and administrative boundaries (ADM1)
Source:geoBoundaries
License:Creative Commons Attribution 4.0
Notes:
- Compiled from official government data
- Updates may lag political changes
- Disputed areas may vary
Esri World Continents
What we use:
Polygon outlines of continents for large-scale context
License:Esri Open Data, attribution required
Notes:
- Generalized dataset for visualization
- Educational use only, not for legal/scientific purposes
Mapshaper
What we use:
Tool for simplifying and optimizing geographic datasets
Source:mapshaper.org
License:MPL 2.0
Notes:
- Reduces file size while preserving shapes
- May remove fine-grained details
- Processes other datasets listed here
Important Limitations
- All maps use projections that distort area, shape, or distance
- SizeOnMap.com uses consistent projection for comparisons, but distortion cannot be fully eliminated
- Boundaries may be subject to disputes and do not represent political stances
- This site is for educational purposes only, not for navigation, planning, or legal uses
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