A globe in a box usually refers to a model of the Earth that is encased in a protective or decorative box. These models can vary in size and complexity, but generally serve educational or decorative purposes. Some of the key features are:
Terrestrial Globe: The globe represents the Earth, often with detailed geographic features such as continents, countries, oceans, and sometimes topographical features such as mountains.
Box design: The box can be made of wood, acrylic or other durable material. It often has a clear lid to allow visibility while protecting the globe from dust and damage.
Scale: The globe is usually scaled down to fit inside the box while still providing a recognizable representation of the Earth.
Rotating Mechanism: Some models allow the globe to rotate, which can enhance educational engagement by allowing users to easily explore different parts of the Earth.
Boxed globes are often used in classrooms to teach geography, helping students visualize the layout of the Earth. Many such models are designed with aesthetic appeal, making them suitable for display in homes, offices or libraries. In shipping in particular, terrestrial globes played an important role in navigation, particularly in understanding how to navigate the Earth's surface.
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Stevenson, E. L., Terrestrial and Celestial Globes; Their History and Construction, Including a Consideration of Their Value As Aids in the Study of Geography and Astro, General Books, 2013.