Source of Boundary Data Images

[jcummings]

From searching the forums and the wiki, I understand that the way political boundaries are drawn changed a while ago from a vector format to simply another image layer (i.e. raster).

My question is simply: what data was used to generate the current political boundaries image layer? That is, someone had to take the vector data and create images from it. What data did they use?

Before someone says "the .wwb files from WW .NET 1.3," please see the attached screen shots showing the differences in the mideast alone. Specifically, the "buffer zone" between Iraq and Saudi Arabia is gone. The border between Saudi Arabia and Yemen is better defined. Notice in Africa that Eritrea actually has a border.

So, clearly a different data set was used. Which one was it?

[bull]

To be honest I have no idea, Randy from Nasa may know, try emailing Randolph.I.Kim@mail.nasa.gov of you do find out please let us know.

[jcummings]

Thank you. I have sent a short message. We'll see what comes of it.

[jcummings]

I've sent my message twice and I haven't heard anything (didn't get a bounce either).

Any other ideas about this data?

Perhaps a starting point would be where the raster images came from. What is the source for those?

[bull]

I will try to get on AIM tonight and ask Randy.

[jcummings]

Thanks. Please let us know what you learn!