The Atlas and the Globe of Russian Geographical Explorations and Discoveries of the Earth: Concepts and Contents

Summary

This article outlines the concepts, contents, and design of the Atlas of Russian Geographical Explorations and Discoveries of the Earth and its accompanying virtual globe, being developed by the Institute of Geography of the Russian Academy of Sciences with assistance from the Russian Geographical Society. Three volumes are planned, covering the periods before 1845, 1845–1917, and 1917 to the present. Materials are arranged chronologically and, within each period, by theme or region, encompassing terrestrial exploration, navigation, oceanographic research, and theoretical geographical discoveries. The framework distinguishes exploration from discovery and treats the earliest cartographic record or written description as the principal evidence for establishing discovery priority. Drawing on existing scholarship, historical maps, and archival documents, the atlas combines route maps with concise explanatory texts, portraits, expedition artwork, and manuscripts. Maps use period-specific geographical names, supplemented by an index containing modern equivalents. Planned outputs include printed and interactive electronic editions, alongside a virtual globe displaying animated expedition routes. Publication of the complete atlas is intended to coincide with the Russian Geographical Society’s 170th anniversary.