Interactive: The Heezen–Tharp World Ocean Floor Map

Though nearly three-quarters of Earth’s surface lies beneath the oceans, the seafloor remained largely unexamined until the mid-20th century. Published in 1977, the World Ocean Floor map presented a sweeping panorama that revealed the underwater landscape in remarkable detail. Today, it is regarded as a landmark in oceanography and scientific cartography.

This interactive explores key regions of the ocean floor and explains how decades of scientific observations were transformed into a vivid portrait of Earth’s hidden landscape. Along the way, you’ll learn how the map was created, meet the people behind it, and discover the marine geology and ocean science that continue to shape our understanding of the planet.

Visit State of the Planet to explore the interactive.