The city and the Somerville Chamber of Commerce have a huge new map to help plan economic and transportation development in the city.

It's not really a map, actually, but rather satellite image—12 feet by 8 feet—that depicts Somerville, Cambridge and Downtown Boston, according to information sent by the city.

The image is so detailed, you can clearly see individual land parcels, Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone said in a statement about the behemoth.

"This kind of imaging tool gives us a perspective and a level of detail that truly enhances the planning process," the mayor said.

Not only is the satellite image huge, it's also magnetic and erasable, allowing planners to use it for presentations.

In addition to being cool, the image should serve as a dramatic marketing tool for the city. "I often point out that Somerville is closer to downtown Boston than most of Boston's own neighborhoods. This image really brings that home," said Curtatone in the statement.

Stephen Mackey, president of the Somerville Chamber of Commerce, said, "In a glance, you can see the tremendous value and advantages of a Somerville address."

The satellite image, developed by Visual Magnetics, was funded by the Chamber of Commerce's economic development committee, comprising Federal Realty investment Trust, Hamlen & Company, Telecommunications Insight Group and Tufts University