Now, in its stunning Ninth Edition, the critically acclaimed National Geographic Atlas of the World reports and examines geopolitical and environmental changes through detailed, accurate maps and beautiful, engaging design that are its hallmark. This cartographic masterwork brings to light the most important and relevant topics that grip our planet today.

New maps cover regions of volatile civil strife, such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq. World thematic spreads reveal freshwater scarcity, global warming, world economies, energy resources and consumption, and other critical trends. Dramatic ocean floor maps show more features and detail than any other atlas. Dynamic graphics and compelling visual stories cover the vital developments of our world in the reliable, authoritative, and innovative style that has made National Geographic a leader in the category.

• Hardcover with slipcase
• 424 pages; 300 maps, 250 illustrations, 50 color photographs
• 12 1/16" x 18 1/4"
• © 2010

National Geographic cartographers bring nearly a century of mapmaking experience and cutting-edge technology to every atlas product. Today, satellite and digital imaging, GPS, and GIS technologies provide cartographers with new tools to map the Earth and its myriad regions—from far above and up close—across all seven continents and the interconnected oceans. Leveraging these emerging technologies to build smart, well-designed, functional, informative atlases is one of National Geographic's great strengths.