Atlas of Macroscopes

A fascinating data adventure through the lens of macroscopes, which offer us illuminating and holistic views of our ever-changing world.

In Atlas of Macroscopes, Katy Börner, Elizabeth Record, and Todd Theriault take you on an epic data adventure. You will explore data landscapes, designed as uniquely interactive spaces, and learn more about our world and your place in it. You will gain new perspectives on how to gather, understand, and communicate data, as well as how to best use it. You will discover what it means to “touch” data that informs and inspires.

Transcending the static nature of the maps featured in the initial trilogy, this fourth Atlas showcases 40 real-life macroscopes, or interactive data visualizations, that were displayed in the first decade (2015–2024) of the traveling exhibit Places & Spaces: Mapping Science.

Encompassing vast amounts of data, macroscopes give us holistic views of complex systems or networks. They provide an entry point for scientists and laypeople alike, and empower us to engage directly with large datasets and to conduct our own lines of questioning. As interactive tools, macroscopes connect data creators and users. As portals to continuously evolving data, macroscopes can serve as windows to the dynamics of any terrain—personal or professional, local or global—and offer key insights into our surroundings and even our place in the universe.

While big data is creating new ways to view and understand information, macroscopes help us see the big picture as we seek to better navigate our ever-changing world.