Isohyet maps are maps which feature Isohyet lines, which connect points of equal rainfall over a defined time period. Isohyet maps are typically accompanied by colored regions, which help to clarify the different sections of average rainfall totals. This map shows the average rainfall for Hong Kong during the month of June 2012.
Isotach maps are maps which feature Isotach lines, which are lines connecting points of wind speed which are the same value. These lines are found in weather maps. As with most other weather maps, detail of the land is usually simplified so that the viewer can clearly see the isotach lines. Usually isotach lines are accompanied by arrows showing the direction of the wind and sometimes colors areas.
Isobars are lines connecting points of equal value in a map. They are often found in weather maps and generally used for displaying pressure variables and changes. In maps using isobars, there usually is not a great deal of detail in the mapping of the land, so that the viewer can clearly see the isobar lines.
LIDAR is a high tech sensor which sends lasers out and receives the reflections in order to create a map of an area. It can be used to map lands or even cluttered cities. This is a LIDAR image of Ground Zero just after September 11, 2001.
Doppler radar maps are creating by radars which send out signals, which is then reflected back and analyzed by a computer system. This is heavily used in weather to track storm systems. Most doppler maps use a scale of colors which corresponds to the height and thickness of clouds, which includes snow, ice, and rain. The differing levels of colors represent the severity of conditions.
Infrared Aerial Photo Maps use infrared photography in order to create greater distinction between different types of objects. It's very useful in mapping cities and forests. Infrared is used in combination with sensors to create more highly detailed and accurate topographic maps. This infrared map shows the Sacramento River Delta.
Cartographic Animation are a newer form of mapping in which various phenomena are visualized in animated format to actively show changes, movements, and patterns. These maps are highly used in weather applications and earth studies to track things such as hurricanes and tsunamis. This animation shows the movement of the eye of a hurricane over the coast of North Carolina.
