Globe FAQ

Frequently asked questions about globes

Why are globes mounted on a tilted axis?

Many world globes are made to match the 23° tilt of the Earth. It is this tilting of the Earth, relative to the sun as it orbits around it, which accounts for the changing of the seasons.

How do you plot a location on a globe?

There are two imaginary reference lines from which all distances and locations are determined on a globe. The equator runs east and west around the exact middle of the world globe and the prime meridian runs north and south through the Poles and Greenwich, England.

Latitude and longitude are the angular distance (represented in degrees and minutes) of a place in reference to the intersection of the equator and prime meridian. Latitude lines rub parallel to the equator in 10° increments. Longitude lines run parallel to the prime meridian in 15° increments. For example, Dallas, Texas, is located 33° north (latitude) 97° west (longitude).

Why are some globes tan and some blue?

Typically, tan globes are have the appearance of antiques and are preferred when the globe is to be used as a decorative accessory because tan is a neutral color that complements almost any home or office decor.

The tan background of a world globe is actually modeled after an ancient parchment to give the globe an antique or "Old World" look. Most often, the geographic information is up-to-date and these details about globes are done primarily for their aesthetic appeal.

World globes geared toward the youth or educational markets usually feature a stylized realism. Ocean areas are colored blue and geographical and political boundaries are represented with colorful, highly contrasting fields.

How geographically up-to-date is a new globe?

Globe manufacturers have a policy of updating maps used for a globe every time it is printed. Most changes are simple name changes that are relatively easy to make.

When the US State Department recognizes name or boundary changes, manufacturers begin to implement the changes on their globes. Generally, the 9 in. and 12 in. diameter world globes are the first sizes to reflect these changes, followed by other less common sizes.

This process can take anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the field inventory. The fact that there can be no absolute guarantee that any map on a globe is 100% current should not be a deterrent to buyers because the real value of a globe is to show true geographical relationships.

Does my globe require any special care?

Most earth globes are coated with a special finish that protects the globe and enhances its appearance. Occasional dusting with a dry cloth is usually all the cleaning your globe will require.

Occasionally you may have to use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to remove fingerprints or smudges. Take care to avoid cleaning your globe with industrial or even household cleaners that contain alcohol or any solvents as they can damage the finish of your globe.

Where can I buy a replacement light bulb for an illuminated earth globe?

Replacement bulbs can be found at any hardware or lighting store. Some illuminated earth globes use 25 watt candelabra bulbs and others require a standard light bulb. Please read and follow any instructions included with your illuminated globe to ensure using the correct replacement light bulb.

What is that metal ring around the middle of some globes?

Most educational world globes represent the equator with a metal ring in the middle of the globe. These metal details about globes serve as 0° latitude and, in some constructions, also help to hold the globes together.

Should I buy a globe or an atlas?

Atlases and globes are each excellent reference and teaching tools and complement each other nicely when used together. But if you can't buy both, the advantage of a globe is that the world in its entirety is depicted in realistic spherical format. As well as being functional, many globes also serve as attractive décor in homes and offices.

World globes come in many exciting styles. Whether you're looking for a realistic teaching tool or something to decorate your home or office, there is a world globe that's right for you.

More information on world globes