Following the updated World Statistics, there is a new special feature on: The Great Divide - Rich or Poor?* Images of Earth encapsulate the planet using satellite imagery, with images processed exclusively for this atlas.

* The extensive Gazetteer of Nations has been comprehensively revised to include the latest economic and political information. * In World Geography we provide detailed studies of topics ranging from the Universe to Wealth and Standards of Living. * World city plans: 70 of the world's greatest cities are shown in detail with locations of great public buildings and the largest museums and galleries.

* For the first time In the World Maps section, we add space launch sites - about 40 sites worldwide. We update the Arctic and Antarctica, revising the limits of sea ice to reflect global climate changes and add new national parks in Australia and Albania. In global transport and infrastructure the new international airports coming on stream in Dehli and Vietnam and railways are updated to include the new Iran/Iraq line.