What is cartography in relation to geodesy?

Cartography is fundamentally understood as the art and science of making maps, and it is closely related to geodesy, which is the science of measuring and understanding the Earth's geometric shape, orientation in space, and gravitational field. Geodetic data provides detailed and precise information about the Earth's surface, which is essential for accurate map-making. This context enables cartographers to create representations of geographical areas that reflect real-world features and relationships, incorporating topographical, political, and other spatial information.

The integration of geodetic principles in cartography ensures that the maps produced are not only aesthetically pleasing but also scientifically accurate. This relationship highlights the importance of geodesy in determining the curvature of the Earth, position of geographic locations, and understanding the scale needed for maps, which are all essential for creating reliable cartographic representations. Such a combination allows for the effective communication of spatial information to various users, such as urban planners, researchers, and the general public.