| Details: |
The problem of constructing flat representations of spherical surfaces arises naturally in geography and astronomy while making maps. We look at a mathematical formulation of this problem using the notion of conformal mapping, and discuss its relation with complex analysis. After reviewing the contributions of Gauss, Riemann, and Poincaré to this problem, we end with some glimpses of 20th century developments. This will be an expository talk accessible to undergraduate and postgraduate students. |