Spatial data types
Spatial data types are used to work with mapping systems. There are two broad categories, geometry and geography. This discussion is focused on geography. You may need more general and flexible geometry options, especially if you are not specifically looking for a physical mapping capability.
Two new spatial reference identifiers (SRIDs) are available in SQL Server 2019. These Australian GDA2020 identifiers provide more accurate data for the Australian continent and are closely aligned with the latest GPS satellites (GNSS). For more information on these particular identifiers, go to http://www.ga.gov.au/scientific-topics/positioning-navigation/geodesy/datums-projections/gda2020.
Why spacial data types?
For any spacial or geometry calculations on spheres, such as the Earth, spacial data types allow easy calculation of distances and other calculations in a T-SQL query.
Which spatial identifier you use will depend on your location and your needs. Each identifier...