Celestial globe or terrestrial globe? Where a terrestrial globe will represent our Earth in three dimensions, a celestial globe will show us the stars, the constellations, and the different galaxy objects. A small-scale reproduction of our night sky is perfect for learning about astronomy or perfecting its decoration. Some luminous and interactive terrestrial globes now offer this dual function.
The Precision
Many cities and towns have changed names throughout their history with a constantly changing world. If your terrestrial globe is destined to become a reference, it must imperatively reflect all recent changes accurately and include as much detail as possible. Globes of around thirty centimeters in diameter will already be able to accommodate several thousand places, geopolitical limits, names of mountains, and other geographical markers.
The Dimensions
Relatively light and easy to transport, for the most part, terrestrial globes vary widely in size and weight, in particular, because of the materials used. This will also affect the final price. You will choose yours, taking into account the space you plan to reserve for it. Too small, and your globe may get lost in the background and not provide the level of information you want. Too big, and it could well clutter the room, especially since the larger collectible models usually have a wide wooden ring, further increasing the space required. Much heavier, the terrestrial globes of this type are also more difficult to turn and, therefore, rather intended for ornament.
Generally, count 30 cm in diameter for a standard desktop globe and a minimum of forty for a standing globe. Other decorative models, around 15 cm in diameter, will easily find their place on a shelf or bookcase.
Colors
Beyond the size, the solid colors of a globe from Replogle Globes for example will be the other essential aspect that will first catch the eye. And here, all variations are allowed! Those, more classic, whose countries of all colors will contrast light blue oceans. Perfect for clearly distinguishing borders. Others, more fundamental, have opted for the same color reserved for each continent. Still, others, like old paper maps, have a monochromatic appearance or vintage-style shading, reinforced depending on the model by a specific relief allowing you to discover the world’s mountain ranges at your fingertips. The most modern versions will incorporate less conventional shades such as silver, black, copper, and even transparent. Sometimes it will all be a compromise between the features you want and the space you have. A decorative terrestrial globe will try to best adapt to the atmosphere of an interior!
The Price
Finally, the budget you have will determine the globe for which you will get the price of materials, no doubt, but that won’t prevent you from finding what you’re looking for among much more accessible models!