Google Earth KML

Imagery update for Tehran

2009-07-06T10:42:00.000-07:00

Google

http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2009/06/imagery-update-for-tehran.html

Many of you have been letting us know through Tweets, emails, blog posts, message boards, and even an online petition that you're very interested in seeing recent satellite imagery of Tehran. Well, we've heard your requests and over the past few days have been working with our satellite imagery partner GeoEye to make this possible. We just received updated satellite imagery of Tehran, taken on Thursday the 18th at approximately 11:18am local time. Below are some screenshots the updated imagery, you can view the entire image in Google Earth with this KML file.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/tehran_iran_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/tehran_iran_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Kosi The Sorrow of Bihar

2009-06-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

Raghu Katti

This KMZ file tells the story of the destruction caused by the river KOSI in the Indian state of Bihar in 2008. It gives details of the catastrophic floods caused by the river, various geological and manmade factors which lead to this destruction and some myths surrounding the river.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/kosi_river_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/kosi_river_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Waterkeepers

2009-06-23T13:40:00.001-07:00

Ron Hall

Waterkeeper Alliance is an international grassroots advocacy organization that connects and supports local Waterkeeper programs (Riverkeeper, Coastkeeper, Soundkeeper, Lakekeeper) to provide a voice for waterways and their communities worldwide. This kml piece is a project by the Spokane Riverkeeper to use Google Earth (and other free Google offerings) to increase public awareness of the Waterkeepers Alliance program. Programs protect the ecology, ecosystems, watershed, and water quality of various rivers, lakes, seas, bays, sounds, and coasts around the world. (Center for Justice, pollution).

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/waterkeepers_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/waterkeepers_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Create Rainforest

2009-06-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

BOS Deutschland e.V.

http://www.bos-deutschland.de

Borneo Orangutan Survival aforestation project in East Kalimantan.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/create_rainforest_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/create_rainforest_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Spokane River Issues

2009-06-23T13:39:00.000-07:00

Ron Hall

On April 14, 2004, the Spokane River was recognized as the 6th most endangered river in America (American Rivers). The objective of this piece is to "promote regional dialogs for sustaining a healthy river system while meeting the needs of a growing population" (Spokane River Forum). The Spokane River flows from Lake Coeur d'Alene in northern Idaho approximately 90 miles northwest through Spokane, Wash., before emptying into the Columbia River above Grand Coulee Dam. The river's flow is partially fed by the Spokane-Rathdrum Aquifer, which provides drinking water to 400,000 people in the region. The river is a vital part of the quality of life in its namesake city, offering riverfront trails and parks, a prized trout fishery, whitewater recreation and dramatic, natural scenery (Spokane Falls). The river is affected by crop irrigation, low flows (dams for power generation), wastewater discharges (treatment plant discharge, "cso"'s), and toxic pollution from former mining activities. CELP, Center for Justice.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/spokane_river_issues_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/spokane_river_issues_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

UNHCR Refugee Camps Around the Globe

2009-06-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR)

http://www.unhcr.org

Every year, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) gives assistance and shelter to millions of people forcibly uprooted from their homes. UNHCR is putting refugees on the map - a virtual map - with a new Google Earth tour that shows UNHCR's refugee camp across the globe.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/unhcr_camps_showcase_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/unhcr_camps_showcase_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Rebuilding faces, changing lives

2009-06-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

Project Harar

http://www.projectharar.co.uk

Project Harar is a health outreach charity that secures professional surgical treatment and after-care for children and young people with severe facial disfigurements from remote and very poor areas of Ethiopia. Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world and its children suffer from all the associated impacts on health. There is a dramatic lack of affordable, accessible medical care, especially outside the main cities. Since 2001, Project Harar has secured in-country surgical and rehabilitative care for hundreds of young people affected by facial disfigurements caused by cleft lip/palate, burns, animal attacks and noma - a devastating infection. Explore the KML to see the areas where Project Harar operates and find out more about Ethiopian healthcare and the experience of living with a facial disfigurement in isolated and impoverished communities.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/project_harar_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/project_harar_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

U.S. Coast Guard Environmental Stewardship Efforts

2009-04-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

United States Coast Guard

http://www.uscg.mil

The U.S Coast Guard is a maritime, multi-mission, military service within the Department of Homeland Security and one of the nation's five armed services. The U.S. Coast Guard is also a strong environmental steward and this layer showcases Coast Guard efforts to protect and conserve the environment in the Pacific including environmental response, energy conservation, marine debris cleanups, fisheries and sanctuary enforcement, polar operations and wildlife conservation initiatives. Come explore the Coast Guard and learn how to assist them in protecting the environment by providing direct feedback on illegal fishing, pollution, and issues relevant to Coast Guard missions!

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/us_coast_guard_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/us_coast_guard_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

The 2009 Goldman Environmental Prize Recipients

2009-04-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

Goldman Environmental Prize

http://www.goldmanprize.org

Circle the globe on a tour narrated by Robert Redford that explores the stories of the 2009 Goldman Environmental Prize recipients. The Prize annually honors inspiring grassroots environmental leaders from around the world with a cash prize of $150,000 and spreads the word about their important work. Through this KML,visit massive mountaintop removal coal mines in Appalachia, majestic waterfalls in the Congo Basin Rainforest, ship breaking yards lining the beaches of Bangladesh, and other locations where Prize winners are taking on extraordinary challenges on behalf of the environment.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/goldman_prize_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/goldman_prize_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Protected Areas and Energy Development

2009-03-30T15:49:00.000-07:00

NRDC and Audubon

http://www.nrdc.org

The National Audubon Society and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) have created maps of restricted lands and sensitive wildlife areas in the western U.S., to help plan development projects by avoiding such areas.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/protected_areas_energy_development_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/protected_areas_energy_development_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

The Sumatran Forest

2009-03-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

David Gaveau

http://sumatranforest.org/

This high informative KML provides an examination of the Sumatran forests of Indonesia, which support an amazing array of flora and fauna. This file looks at deforestation in the region to show nature reserves along with their rates of deforestation and at the general land cover in the form of data overlays.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/sumatran_forest_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/sumatran_forest_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Extreme Ice Survey

2009-03-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

Extreme Ice Survey

http://www.extremeicesurvey.org

The Extreme Ice Survey uses time-lapse photography and video to document the rapid changes now occurring on the the Earth's glacial ice. The EIS team has installed time-lapse cameras at 15 locations in Greenland, Iceland, Alaska, and the Rocky Mountains. Through this KML you can visit the locations of our cameras get a through-the-lens view of the glaciers the cameras are watching.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/extreme_ice_survey_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/extreme_ice_survey_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Audubon Priority Bird Areas and Responsible Wind Development

2009-03-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

Audubon Society

http://audubon.org/campaign/energy/sagebrush/

Audubon strongly supports properly-sited wind power as a clean alternative energy source that reduces the threat of global warming. Wind power facilities should be planned, sited and operated to minimize negative impacts on bird and wildlife populations.

This layer shows important bird areas in Wyoming, Montana, and parts of the surrounding states. These are sensitive areas which should be avoided when planning the siting and development of energy infrastructure. See the layer content and the website linked above for more information.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/audubon_ibarw_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/audubon_ibarw_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Solar Jobs Growth 2009-2016

2009-03-13T16:38:00.000-07:00

The Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation

http://www.seref.us/solarjobsmap.html

Solar energy has long been touted as a clean alternative to traditional electricity generation, but building a clean energy economy will also create jobs. Thanks to federal and state policies to support renewable energy, it's estimated that the solar industry will create hundreds of thousands of green jobs in coming years.

Based on a study by Navigant Consulting Inc., and with the help of Google.org and Google Earth Outreach, the Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation (SEREF) have developed a U.S. solar jobs map in Google Earth. You can also view this as a KML in Google Earth by clicking on the "Open this KML" link below.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/solar_jobs_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/solar_jobs_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

USA CO2 emissions

2009-03-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

Purdue University

www.purdue.edu/eas/carbon/vulcan/GEarth/

This KML from Project Vulcan team shows CO2 emissions on Google Earth. This emissions data product along with the Google Earth representation can be found at www.purdue.edu/eas/carbon/vulcan. It represents all fossil fuel CO2 emissions in the United States. The data product was constructed by researchers at Purdue University in collaboration with researchers at Colorado State University and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and was funded by NASA and DOE with additional support from Purdue's Showalter Trust and Knauf Insulation.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/usa_co2_emissions_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/usa_co2_emissions_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

US Unemployment Rates December 2008

2009-02-18T08:33:00.001-08:00

GreenInfo Network

http://www.greeninfo.org

Gina Clemmer at New Urban Research, Inc. posted on the Society for Conservation GIS email list, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and represent unemployment levels as of December, 2008. We felt this data would interest the GE community enabling them to both see their county, how it compared to those around them as well as others throughout the country. Nationally this is a powerful image and there are some incredibly high numbers, look at Mackinac County in Northern Michigan that have an unemployment rate of 24.2%, or pan to Puerto Rico.

Special thanks to The Swordpress for posting the KMZ

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/unemployment_rates_december08_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/unemployment_rates_december08_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Naturschutz Gruenes Band

2009-02-10T16:34:00.001-08:00

BUND (Friends of the Earth Germany)

http://www.bund.net/

Fast 40 Jahre lang teilte der Eiserne Vorhang Europa. Gleichzeitig gab diese Grenze der Natur eine über 30-jährige Atempause. Der innerdeutsche Grenzstreifen wurde zum Refugium für viele seltene Pflanzen und Tiere. Der BUND sorgt dafür, dass dieses Gebiet erhalten bleibt und weiterhin Heimat vieler seltener Pflanzen und Tiere sein kann. Um die Geschichte des innerdeutschen Grenzstreifens zu erzähhlen und der Natur, die sich dort entwickeln konnte, kreierte der BUND diese wunderschöne KML-Datei. Schauen Sie mal rein!

Almost 40 years the Iron Curtain divided Europe. At the same time this border gave nature a more than 30-years reprieve. The border area within Germany became a hideaway for rare plants and animals. The BUND got involved to conserve this area and makes sure it stays home of many rare species. In order to tell the story of the German border area and the nature that developed there during the time, the BUND now created this beautiful KML. Have a look!

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/bund_gruenes_band_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/bund_gruenes_band_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Per Capita CO2 Emissions

2009-02-10T16:21:00.000-08:00

World Resources Institute (Earth Trends)

http://earthtrends.wri.org/updates/node/335

In this powerful geospatial visualization, you can view the CO2 (Carbon dioxide) emissions per capita for each country around the world for 2004. By using polygons to present their data, the World Resources Institute (Earth Trends) provide an easy to understand and accessible form of data regarding one of the "hot" topics in the news. It could be interesting to see this same KML presentation in 20 years time to see what countries are truly playing their part to reduce emissions.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/co2_emissions_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/co2_emissions_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

NSIDC Glaciers and Climate Change

2009-02-05T16:00:00.000-08:00

National Snow and Ice Data Center

http://nsidc.org/

Here, you can explore a KML providing a rich geospatial presentation illustrating the changes in glaciers over the years. By providing documented photographic evidence, you can see first hand the changes that have taken place. Since glaciers can contribute to sea level rise, understanding the changes that have occurred over the years can provide us with a greater knowledge of the impacts we are having on our own planet with regards to climate change.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/nsidc_glaciers_showcase_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/nsidc_glaciers_showcase_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Righteous Among the Nations

2009-02-05T15:20:00.000-08:00

BeadieJay

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1194419

January 27th marked International Holocaust Remembrance day; a day set by the United Nations General Assembly to commemorate the victims of the Nazi regime. In this highly informative KML, you are able to geographically explore the lives of people designated "Righteous among the Nations". These people are defined as non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. BeadieJay, a member of the Google Earth Community uses her passion for all things geospatial to pay tribute to each of these "righteous" people.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/righteous_among_nations_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/righteous_among_nations_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

All The Water

2009-02-04T08:30:00.000-08:00

David Tryse

http://david.tryse.net/googleearth/

This fascinating geographical visualization created by David Tryse, illustrates how all the world's water would appear if gathered into a sphere. Alongside the 'Total Water' sphere, are several other smaller spheres, each one decreasing in size to represent other water sources - for example the amount of water found in soil moisture. These kinds of visually impacting and easy to understand KML's can prove so useful in enabling a better understanding of our own, 'blue planet'.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/all_the_water_o_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/all_the_water_o_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Global Fisheries Catches From 1950-2004

2009-01-29T07:41:00.000-08:00

The Sea Around Us Project

http://seaaroundus.org/

Overfishing, driven by subsidies of over $30 billion USD per year, has depleted fish populations worldwide, and is compromising ecosystem structure and function. The costs are becoming increasingly unacceptable. We have assembled global databases of catches, distributions of commercial marine species, countries fishing access agreements, ex-vessel prices, marine protected areas and other data, and mapped these. This information, integrated using powerful new analyses, enabled us to illustrate worrying ecosystem impacts of fisheries.

This Google Earth layer presents the data in three ways:
1. Clickable points that provide static summaries of total catches made in countries' territories and on the high seas;
2. A dynamic animation of the annual catch rates (in tonnes per square km per year), showing where fisheries started, collapsed, and subsequently moved to;
3. A dynamic animation of the spread of fisheries catch across the globe.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/global_fisheries_catch_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/global_fisheries_catch_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Francis Gary Powers: The U-2 Incident

2009-01-07T15:58:00.000-08:00

BeadieJay

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/1270728

On May 1st 1960, an experienced pilot working on a secret CIA mission to photograph missile sites was flying over the USSR in a top secret aircraft. That aircraft was the U-2 spy plane and the pilot was Francis Gary Powers.

In an event that had a profound effect on the cold war, this incident has been re-told through KML.

By collecting a vast array of information from a range of historical repositories, BeadieJay, a member of the Google Earth Community communicates the story of the U-2 incident in Google Earth and through textual and photographic information, this KML facilitates a greater understanding of the locations involved and provides the story with a geospatial voice.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/francis_gary_powers_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/francis_gary_powers_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

2008 Global Torch Relay

2008-12-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

Google

http://www.google.com

Track the 2008 Global Torch Relay as it makes its way around the earth.

An ongoing tradition from 766 B.C. has been to ignite the torch at the ancient site in Olympia, Greece. From March 25th until the start of August, the Torch Relay will travel across Greece, into Beijing, and then around the world through cities, oceans, and even the world's highest mountain, Mt. Qomolangma (Mt. Everest). The relay's purpose is to spread the Olympic spirit as well as the message of peace and friendship, and also ignite the passion of the people around the world.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/torch_relay_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/torch_relay_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

360 Cities

2008-12-04T04:53:00.000-08:00

360 Cities BV

http://www.360cities.net

Fly inside 360 degree panoramas in locations worldwide.

Using the PhotoOverlay feature in Google Earth 4.2, 360 Cities have created this KML that allows you to fly into hundreds of panoramas. Each city has a variety of locations with panoramas to fly into. From the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles to the hot deserts of Syria, there is something for all travel tastes. 360 Cities are continually updating this dymanic KML, enabling you to view new panoramas as they become available for new places.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/360_cities_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/360_cities_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth 4.2

UNHCR - A Refugee's Life

2008-12-03T12:50:00.000-08:00

UNHCR

http://www.unhcr.org

See how the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is assisting refugees worldwide.

This KML produced by the Geneva based UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) illustrates the life of refugees located worldwide and shows the valuable work being undertaken by the agency to offer assistance through health care, education and hope. Through photographic, video and textual information, this KML provides a geographical account of the UNHCR's work.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/unhcr_layer_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/unhcr_layer_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Women For Women

2008-11-06T13:41:00.000-08:00

Women For Women International

http://www.womenforwomen.org

Women for Women is a non profit organization that provides much needed support to women who have been caught up in war - enabling them to develop. This KML tells the stories of some of the women involved in the project, showing their struggles and achievements.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/women_for_women_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/women_for_women_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Greenpeace Esperanza Expedition

2008-10-31T07:50:00.000-07:00

Greenpeace

http://www.greenpeace.org/international

This KML lets you follow the Greenpeace ship 'Esperanza' as she crosses the globe, carrying out work on the frontline of their environmental and peace campaigns. Explore text, photos and videos within the description balloons giving you geographically organized information about what Greenpeace is doing.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/greenpeace_esperanza_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/greenpeace_esperanza_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Universidad Politecnica de Madrid - La Calidad del Aire

2008-10-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

Universidad Politécnica

http://www.upm.es

Este KML muestra un sistema de predicción de la Calidad del Aire para todos los municipios españoles con más de 50.000 habitantes. Se basa en un modelo de última generación que incluye las emisiones de tráfico, industria y biogénicas que permiten obtener las concentraciones en el aire estimadas para las próximas 72 horas con una resolución de 50 km.

Los resultados se muestran en Google Earth en modo gráfico, según 4 niveles de contaminación atmosférica que se corresponden con los contaminantes incluidos en las Directivas y Reales Decretos que limitan su concentración para la protección de la salud de los ciudadanos.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/calidad_del_aire_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/calidad_del_aire_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Muestra de Proyectos de Desarrollo y Comercio Justo

2008-10-03T15:10:00.000-07:00

Intermon Oxfam

http://www.intermonoxfam.org/es/page.asp?id=1

Los 18 proyectos que presenta Intermón Oxfam en Google Earth Solidario son una pequeña muestra del trabajo en proyectos de desarrollo y comercio justo que la organización desarrolla en diversos países del mundo. Con el Banco de Agua en Etiopía, que ha conseguido el acceso al agua potable a más de 60.000 personas, visibilizamos una de nuestras especialidades de trabajo en terreno: el agua, el saneamiento y la higiene. Unos proyectos que contemplan desde la construcción de estructuras hidrológicas para abastecer de agua potable a la población, hasta la recuperación de manantiales, sistemas de recogida de agua de lluvia, construcción de pozos y canalizaciones de agua. Además de una formación a los beneficiarios para su correcto mantenimiento.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/intermon_oxfam_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/intermon_oxfam_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Cambios en la ocupacion del suelo en Espana

2008-10-03T14:53:00.000-07:00

Observatorio para la sostenibildiad en España

http://www.sostenibilidad-es.org/observatorio%20sostenibilidad

Este KML muestra los cambios en la ocupación del suelo en España, desde las primeras fotos aéreas tomadas por un avión americano en el año 1956 hasta nuestros días. Se centran en las transformaciones que afectan al agua, a los bosques, y a los profundos efectos sobre la economía y la sociedad, basadas en el primer informe temático que esta organización realizó sobre la materia.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/observatorio_sostenibilidad_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/observatorio_sostenibilidad_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Marine Protected Areas

2008-10-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

IUCN

http://www.iucn.org

This "Marine Protected Areas" KML file was produced through a collaborative effort between some of the biggest names in ocean conservation. On opening this KML and zooming in, you will see the locations of marine protected areas illustrated by a placemark icon. Clicking on these icons provides you with rich textual and graphical information about the specific location. Zooming in further will show the boundaries of the diverse and precious sites.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/marine_protected_areas_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/marine_protected_areas_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

The Aftermath of Hurricane Ike

2008-09-16T17:11:00.000-07:00

Google / NOAA

http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2008/09/aftermath-of-hurricane-ike.html

Three days after Hurricane Ike slammed into Galveston, Texas as a Category 2 hurricane, severe flooding has challenged Gulf Coast residents from Texas to Louisiana. A team at Google has been gathering information we hope will be useful to residents of the affected regions and the relief agencies working to help them.

After Hurricane Ike came ashore in the wee hours Saturday morning and as the weather cleared, NOAA's Remote Sensing Division began flying rapid response aerial reconnaissance missions of the Texas and Louisiana Gulf region. This aerial imagery is intended to provide emergency managers with a broad view of damage and residual flooding, so that they can prioritize and direct response to aid those in greatest need in the affected regions.

Members of the Google Earth team have processed this imagery into a KML image overlay for easy access by anyone. To view the imagery in Google Earth, download the KML by clicking on "Open this KML" below.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/hurricane_ike_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/hurricane_ike_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Gulf Coast Safety Net - Hurricane Tracking Version

2008-09-03T07:48:00.000-07:00

Direct Relief International

http://www.directrelief.org

As part of its response to Hurricane Gustav, Direct Relief mapped the federally qualified community health centers and free clinics along the U.S. Gulf Coast that make up the core of the medical "safety net" for the region. Combining these facility locations with the path of the hurricane, they were able to target medical material, financial, and other assistance to those places that need it most. The resulting KML layer also includes 18 clinics that received a Direct Relief hurricane pre-position module prior to the arrival of Hurricane Gustav. These are indicated by a green icon in the layer; the blue icons correspond to non-profit free clinics, and the red correspond to federally qualified community health centers.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/hurricane_directrelief_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/hurricane_directrelief_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

UNHCR Internally Displaced Persons, Somalia

2008-08-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees - UPDATE!

http://www.unhcr.org

In response to the 2006 drought in Somalia, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) began the Population Movement Tracking (PMT) to monitor IDP's, or Internally Displaced Persons. This KML presents an animated account of population movement enabling you to better understand the factors affecting movement, whether through flooding, insecurity/violence or other factors. To view the animation, press the "play" button on the right hand side of the time line bar which can be found at the top of the image viewer.

UPDATE: The UNHCR have made some improvements to their KML. This updated content comprises of; more information in the placemark balloons, personalized icons showing size of population movement, and the integration of "network links", allowing the UNHCR to update their content dynamically without you, the user having to do anything.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/unhcr_idps_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/unhcr_idps_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Reuters AlertNet

2008-08-27T08:33:00.000-07:00

Reuters AlertNet

http://www.alertnet.org/thefacts/satelliteimages/121750206517.htm

This KML produced by Reuters AlertNet enables you to keep up to date with the latest humanitarian crisis around the world. These disasters may be caused by a variety of influences, whether that be conflict, natural disasters or food shortages. By showing just where these situations are occuring, the user can feel a greater relationship to the place which, hopefully provides a better understanding of what is taking place at that location and how it fits in to the rest of the world.

Reuters AlertNet have also used "Network Links" so that the file can be updated without you, the user needing to do anything. So any new information added by Reuters AlertNet is instantly viewable by you.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/reuters_alertnet_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/reuters_alertnet_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Google Lunar X PRIZE

2008-08-27T07:32:00.000-07:00

X PRIZE Foundation

http://www.googlelunarxprize.org

The Google Lunar X PRIZE is a $30 million international competition to safely land a robot on the surface of the Moon, travel 500 meters over the lunar surface, and send images and data back to the Earth. This KML explores the Teams, Foundations, and Partners helping to make this extraordinary feat of engineering and economics possible.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/x_prize_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/x_prize_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

A Googol of Heat Beneath Our Feet

2008-08-27T07:22:00.000-07:00

Google.org

http://www.google.org/egs/

The energy from the heat beneath the earth's surface is essentially an unlimited resource. What if it could be developed to help solve our energy challenges and fight global warming? Enhanced Geothermal Systems, or EGS, attempts to do just that. EGS produces heat and electricity by harnessing the energy from hot rock deep below the earth's surface, expanding the potential of traditional geothermal energy by orders of magnitude. EGS is a big challenge, but with the potential to power the world many times over, it demands our immediate attention. At Google we've launched an effort to advance EGS through R&D, investment, policy and information.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/geotherman_energy_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/geotherman_energy_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth 4.3

North American Species of Common Conservation Concern

2008-06-30T13:46:00.000-07:00

Commission for Environmental Cooperation

http://www.cec.org

This visually informative KML illustrates terrestrial and marine species distribution across North America. By selecting the names of the species, you can view range maps (represented by polygons) to clearly show where they are found. To add to the information available, each species folder provides a placemark description balloon where you can learn more. All of this information is made available inside Google Earth allowing you to explore the many wonderful and unique creatures of our planet, all in a rich geospatial environment.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/cec_sccc_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/cec_sccc_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Urban Ecology - The East Bay Greenway

2008-06-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

Urban Ecology

http://www.urbanecology.org

This KML explores urban planning in the East Bay area of San Francisco, California and was created by Urban Ecology; a non profit organization who specialize in promoting "healthy" urban planning. In viewing this KML, you will see photographs, descriptions and overlays annotated on top of the Earth to present a more understandable and easily accessible account of what Urban Ecology are doing - and where.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/urbanecology_east_bay_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/urbanecology_east_bay_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Endangered Languages of Africa and the Americas

2008-06-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

The Rosetta Project / The Long Now Foundation

http://www.rosettaproject.org/

Connecting you with the world's diverse cultures is this KML layer produced by The Rosetta Project / The Long Now Foundation. Around the world, a significant part of cultural diversity is experienced through language. It is feared that many of the languages, and therefore the cultures they belong to are being lost at such a rapid rate that "linguists predict that we may lose as much as 90% of the world’s linguistic diversity within the next century." This KML provides an opportunity to explore the areas where these endangered languages are spoken throughout Africa and the Americas.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/endangered_languages_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/endangered_languages_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Rapid Assessment Of Land Use Change In and Around Protected Areas (RALUCIAPA)

2008-06-11T11:48:00.000-07:00

Dr Mark Mulligan, UNEP-WCMC

http://www.unep-wcmc.org/protected%5Fareas/raluciapa/

RALUCIAPA (Rapid Assessment Of Land Use Change In and Around Protected Areas) does as it says on the tin and is a collaboration between KCL (Kings College London) and UNEP-WCMC (the United Nations Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre). It is a tool to assist in conservation monitoring and prioritisation and shows protected areas in green. In red it shows areas deforested between 2000 (when most of the NASA imagery used in Google Earth/Maps was taken) and 2005, based on the MODIS VCF data.

This work in progress uses data from NASA, The University of Maryland, and the World Database on Protected Areas.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/raluciapa_protect_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/raluciapa_protect_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Disappearing Forests

2008-06-05T14:33:00.000-07:00

David Tryse

http://david.tryse.net/googleearth/

This wonderful KML presents a geographical account of the planet's disappearing forests. By using polygons to represent rates of deforestation, the data can be quickly and easily communicated. Country profiles are also included, providing high quality, accessible information included as pops ups in the pie chart balloons - be sure to check out the live hectare counter in these placemarks!

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/disappearing_forests_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/disappearing_forests_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Imagery for Sichuan, China Earthquake

2008-05-23T13:23:00.000-07:00

Google

http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2008/05/imagery-for-sichuan-china-earthquake.html

An earthquake of a magnitude of 7.9 hit Sichuan, China on May 12, with its epicenter about 50 miles northwest of Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan. According to the latest news reports, authorities fear that as many as 50,000 people could have lost their lives. We now have post-earthquake imagery from our satellite providers which you can view by downloading the KML file.

N.B. We will keep updating the KML as we receive and process more satellite imagery. Save the KML to your "My Places" to see the imagery updates.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/china_quake_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/china_quake_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Imagery for Myanmar (Burma)

2008-05-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

Google Earth Outreach

http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2008/05/imagery-for-myanmar-burma.html

In the aftermath of the Cyclone Nargis, residents and aid workers are struggling to recover in Myanmar (Burma). Numerous satellite imagery providers have provided pre- and post-cyclone imagery in order to help disaster relief responders on the ground. The KML file provided displays the imagery and other datasets such as the cyclone path, flooded areas, and health facilities.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/cyclone_nargis_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/cyclone_nargis_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Climate Change In Our World

2008-05-15T07:21:00.001-07:00

Met Office

http://www.metoffice.gov.uk

Explore and learn about the impacts of climate change and find out how you can make a difference with Climate Change in our World. The Met Office Hadley Centre, British Antarctic Survey and UK Government have harnessed Google Earth technology to present you with an interactive animation showing how climate change and global temperature rises could affect our world over the next 100 years.

Once you have opened this KML, click on the icons to find out more about how people around the world are already being affected by changing weather patterns and see the predicted effects of climate change across the globe between now and 2100.

On opening up the KML you can find out more about how we produced these files, and what is happening on a global and domestic scale to prevent and combat the effects of climate change.

Viewing tip: To view this animation at a slower speed, click the button on the left of the timeline bar and set the speed slider to its lowest setting.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/mohc_defra_layer_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/mohc_defra_layer_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Forest Cover Change (2000-2005)

2008-04-30T12:51:00.000-07:00

Dr Mark Mulligan

http://www.kcl.ac.uk/schools/sspp/geography/research/emm/geodata/trees.html

" A picture is worth a thousand words " is one phrase many of us are familiar with. This proverb most certainly applies to this KML, which provides a visually impacting set of overlays to illustrate deforestation worldwide. Changes in tree cover from 2000 - 2005 can be explored through animated overlays to show which areas are being worst hit.

Note that some of the data may take several moments to load, but once loaded offers us all an unprecedented insight into the changes taking place on our planet.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/forest_cover_change_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/forest_cover_change_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Climate Change In Our World Antarctica

2008-04-30T11:59:00.007-07:00

British Antarctic Survey

http://www.antarctica.ac.uk

Explore and learn about the impacts of climate change and find out how you can make a difference with Climate Change in our World. The Met Office Hadley Centre, British Antarctic Survey and UK Government have harnessed Google Earth technology to present you with an interactive animation showing the retreat of Antarctic ice shelves over time.

On opening up the KML you can find out more about how we produced these files, and what is happening on a global and domestic scale to prevent and combat the effects of climate change.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/bas_layer_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/bas_layer_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Global Database of Dams

2008-04-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

Dr Mark Mulligan

http://www.kcl.ac.uk/schools/sspp/geography/research/emm/geodata/geowikis.html

View and contribute to developing a global database of dams.

One of the things I like best about Google Earth, is the participatory mapping element of it, where the current 350,000,000 number of users of Google Earth, are as the local experts, building the maps of the future. Dr Mark Mulligan from Kings College London is one individual who is facilitating this effort by providing a KML in which you, the user can explore and contribute to collecting a global database of dams.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/dams_database_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/dams_database_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Spot Image Disasters On The Earth

2008-04-30T11:24:00.001-07:00

Spot Image

http://www.spotimage.com

View the locations where natural (and sometimes man made) disasters have occurred.

From floods affecting thousands in the UK to earthquakes in Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan, this KML created by Spot Image documents disasters (both natural and man made) that have affected our planet. Each placemark provides a geographical reference point with links to maps and additional information. By using "network links" (a tutorial is available in our "tutorials" section), this KML can be updated as required without you, the user needing to take any action to see the latest information.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/spot_image_disasters_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/spot_image_disasters_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Archaeology of Lower Egypt

2008-04-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

The Egypt Exploration Society

http://www.ees.ac.uk

Tour the spectacular archaeological sites of the Nile delta.

This KML explores one of the most archaeologically interesting areas of the world - the Nile delta. The Egypt Exploration Society's Delta Survey has presented their fascinating documentation of this part of Egypt, enabling us to tour and feel a greater connection through textual and photographic information contained within the placemark description balloons.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/egypt_exploration_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/egypt_exploration_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Black Tides: The Worst Oil Spill Disasters in History

2008-04-28T14:57:00.000-07:00

David Tryse

http://david.tryse.net/googleearth/

Learn about the world's worst oil disasters viewing when and where they occurred.

David Tryse has become somewhat of a KML legend over the past year, pushing the boundaries of KML and producing some wonderful KML 'stories' (his EDGE case study can be found in the Case Studies section of the Outreach site). This KML provides an account of "Black Tides" from the 1960's onwards - each spill represented by a 'polygon' and description balloon providing photographs and additional information.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/black_tides_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/black_tides_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Eco Everest Expedition

2008-04-19T13:53:00.000-07:00

International Center for Integrated Mountain Development

http://www.icimod.org

Climb Mount Everest with the Eco Everest Expedition team.

This spring, the Eco Everest Expedition team will ascend Mount Everest and in tandem with moments of personal self doubt, triumph and experiences that will never be forgotten, members will conduct scientific experiments to study the impact of climate change on glacial features within the expedition extent.

In exploring this in-depth KML, you will discover videos, wonderful photographs, flood modeling and up to the date "Dispatches" as they happen so you too can feel a part of the expedition - all from the comfort and oxygen rich environment of your own home. Viewing tip: Be sure to turn on the "Terrain" in your "Layers" panel for full effect.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/eco_everest_expedition_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/eco_everest_expedition_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Israel Tourist Attractions

2008-03-11T07:53:00.003-07:00

Israel Ministry of Tourism

http://www.goisrael.com/tourism_eng

Take a virtual tour across Israel.

This KML enables you to explore tourism sites associated with Israel. Each placemark provides textual and photographic information from beautiful coastline sites to the arid Negev desert.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/israel_tourist_attractions_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/israel_tourist_attractions_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Panoramas of UNESCO Sites in Germany

2008-03-11T07:52:00.001-07:00

OV-Medien GmbH

http://www.deutschland-panorama.de/

View this KML which shows panoramas of UNESCO sites in Germany.

In this KML, you can explore UNESCO sites in Germany and view panoramas of the sites. Each placemark description balloon contains a preview image with links to a full panorama. Perfect for all virtual tourists!

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/deutschland_panorama_unesco_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/deutschland_panorama_unesco_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Alan Lomax Global Language Audio Collection

2008-03-11T07:51:00.000-07:00

The Rosetta Project / The Long Now Foundation

http://www.rosettaproject.org

View a fascinating KML which explores human languages.

This wonderfully presented KML documents a diverse collection of human languages within their geographic locale. Each placemark provides a description balloon with an embedded audio sample to hear, along with additional information and links. This KML is an excellent example of showing information not necessarily associated with a map in its geospatial context.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/alan_lomax_rosetta_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/alan_lomax_rosetta_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Geologic Atlas of the United States

2008-03-10T07:53:00.000-07:00

Texas A&M University Libraries

http://repository.tamu.edu/handle/1969.1/2490

View historial map overlays documenting U.S geology.

In this KML, you are able to view mapping overlays produced by the U.S. Geological Survey between 1894 and 1945. Each location provides overlays for several types of map ranging from topographical to economic. N.B. Some of the map overlays may take several minutes to load.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/geologic_atlas_us_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/geologic_atlas_us_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

South China Sea Project

2008-02-15T07:20:00.000-08:00

UNEP/GEF South China Sea Project

http://www.unepscs.org

Explore a layer providing information about the environment of the South China Sea.

This highly informative layer presents an account of one of the world's most diverse marine environments - the South China Sea. With extensive information, this layer provides details of the government ministries and departments, research institutes, and universities working on projects in the region.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/south_china_sea_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/south_china_sea_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

UK and Ireland Flight Routes

2008-02-14T08:35:00.001-08:00

James Stafford

http://www.barnabu.co.uk

View a clever interpretation showing UK and Ireland flight routes.

This clever little KML illustrates scheduled airline routes in the UK and Ireland. By hovering over the placemark icons, you will be able to see the available destinations from that point of departure. Clicking on the placemark icons brings up a description bubble with information about airlines.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/flight_routes_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/flight_routes_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Spot Gallery

2008-02-14T08:34:00.005-08:00

Spot Image

http://www.spotimage.com

View a KML showcasing Spot Image's best satellite views.

This KML created by the Spot Image showcases some of their best captures using the SPOT5 satellite. Each placemark provides a description balloon with matching image and links to more information along with the option to purchase the image.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/spot_gallery_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/spot_gallery_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

EDGE Amphibians

2008-02-14T08:34:00.003-08:00

Zoological Society of London: EDGE of Existence programme

http://www.edgeofexistence.org

View a KML showing EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered) amphibian Species.

This beautifully crafted KML illustrates the need to protect and conserve endangered wildlife. By using the Spreadsheet Mapper 2.0 tool (found in our tutorials), those at the EDGE of Existence programme have created a fascinating KML showing what amphibian species are endangered, where they are at risk and what you can do to help.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/edge_amphibians_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/edge_amphibians_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

EDGE Mammals

2008-02-14T08:34:00.001-08:00

Zoological Society of London: EDGE of Existence programme

http://www.edgeofexistence.org

View a KML showing EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered) mammal Species.

This beautifully crafted KML illustrates the need to protect and conserve endangered wildlife. By using the Spreadsheet Mapper 2.0 tool (found in our tutorials), those at the EDGE of Existence programme have created a fascinating KML showing what mammal species are endangered, where they are at risk and what you can do to help.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/edge_mammals_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/edge_mammals_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

ProMED Reports

2008-02-14T08:33:00.000-08:00

Herman D. Tolentino

http://epispider.net/index.php

Keep up to date with the latest ProMED reports.

This KML enables you to keep up to date with the latest ProMED (Program for Monitoring Emerging Diseases) reports. The KML animates the last 90 days to show the latest reports and where they related to. Files such as this can prove useful in allowing those studying epidemiology to view trends, but also in creating public awareness of current health issues.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/promed_animation_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/promed_animation_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

U.S. Gross Domestic Product

2008-01-30T07:35:00.000-08:00

Wandamere Technology Services

http://www.wandamere.com

View a geographical representation of U.S. GDP (Gross Domestic Product) change from 1997 - 2006.

This KML presents a geographical representation through polygons to illustrate which U.S. States have experienced the greatest change in their GDP (Gross Domestic Product) from 1997 - 2006.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/us_gdp_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/us_gdp_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Send A Cow

2008-01-30T07:20:00.005-08:00

Robert K. Bernard / Send A Cow

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showthreaded.php/Cat/0/Number/1045777

View the work of a charity working to improve the lives of poor families in Africa.

This KML tells the story of a charity called "Send A Cow; which gives assistance to families in Africa by providing them with the practical help they need. Each placemark provides information about the projects taking place along with photos and links to further information. This type of KML is a good example of how geography can inform many more people about what an organization is doing, and where.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/send_a_cow_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/send_a_cow_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Sky Animation Videos

2008-01-30T07:20:00.003-08:00

Virtual Tourism

http://www.virtualtourism.blogspot.com

View embedded YouTube video animations inside Sky.

In this KML, you can view YouTube videos that have been embedded into the placemark description balloons to match specific locations in Google Sky. Click on each placemark name to view the video and read a brief description of the celestial feature.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/sky_videos_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/sky_videos_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth 4.2

America's Wild Legacy

2008-01-30T07:20:00.001-08:00

GreenInfo Network

http://www.greeninfo.org

Explore a KML highlighting 52 special places in America.

Produced by the GreenInfo Network for the Sierra Club, this KML sets out to explore the diversity and beauty the American wilderness has to offer - and how these lands are at risk. Each placemark provides a well presented description bubble with further information, photographs and links.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/americas_wild_legacy_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/americas_wild_legacy_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Researching the Ancient Bristlecone Pines

2008-01-24T11:46:00.000-08:00

Adelia Barber, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (University of California, Santa Cruz)

http://bio.research.ucsc.edu/people/doaklab/adelia.html

Tour the ecology and environment of the most ancient living trees on earth, the bristlecone pines.

This Google Earth tour introduces users to the ecology and environment of the most ancient living trees on earth, the bristlecone pines (Pinus longaeva). Additionally, a sample week of scientific research with a team from the University of California’s White Mountain Research Station provides a good example of how field researchers can use Google Earth. Educators and students will find great information on the natural history of these incredible trees, and other scientists will come away with new ideas about to use Google Earth as a research tool.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/bristlecone_pine_research_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/bristlecone_pine_research_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Vegetation Programme Animation

2008-01-07T11:51:00.005-08:00

VITO - Flemish institute for technological research

http://www.vito.be/english/environment/tap.htm

Explore animated overlays of global vegetation cover.

In this KML, you can explore animated overlays of global vegetation cover from 2004 - 2006. These overlays were collected using remote sensing techniques and overlaid onto Google Earth for millions to see. The image overlays are fairly large in size and may require you to run the animation for several minutes to achieve full effect.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/vegetation_programme_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/vegetation_programme_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Iowa Caucus Results

2008-01-07T11:51:00.003-08:00

GreenInfo Network

http://www.greeninfo.org

View the results from the Iowa Caucus

The 2008 U.S. Election is arguably one of the most important in modern times. The process to elect a new U.S. President began with a caucus in the state of Iowa. Greeninfo Network have provided us with this KML offering an excellent geographical overview of the results. This is a prime example of using geography to enhance a user's understanding of a topic.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/iowa_caucus_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/iowa_caucus_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Happy New Year

2008-01-07T11:51:00.001-08:00

Steven Ho

See how one individual chose to wish people a happy new year!

This KML combines Google Earth's modelling and animation features to wish us all a happy 2008. Once you've opened the KML, press the play button to let the animation run through a couple of times. Then sit back and enjoy the lights and moving text.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/happy_new_year_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/happy_new_year_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Trip Around Asia

2008-01-07T11:50:00.000-08:00

Dan Bauer

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showthreaded.php/Cat/0/Number/606094

Enjoy a guided tour of Asia.

This KML presents a photographic tour of Asia. Intrepid explorer, Dan Bauer, spent thirty months traveling across Asia and Australasia collecting many beautiful photographs. From bustling spice markets in India to the majestic Himalayan mountains, these images are all the better for being geographically organized.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/asia_trip_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/asia_trip_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Anthropogenic Biomes

2008-01-07T11:48:00.000-08:00

UMBC - University of Maryland, Baltimore County

http://www.umbc.edu/ges

Explore a KML examining the influence of humans on planet Earth.

This KML explores the influence of mankind on the planet. By annotating their data overlays on top of Google Earth, the University of Maryland, Baltimore County provides an insight into the way humans are interacting with ecosystems around the world.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/anthropogenic_biomes_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/anthropogenic_biomes_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Southern California Fire Perimeters

2007-12-12T05:27:00.000-08:00

North Tree Fire International

http://www.northtreefire.com/gis

View the perimeters of the devestating Southern California fires.

This KML allows you to view the extent of the fires that occurred in Southern California. Information from the 2003 season and the recent devestating fires is available to show just how much land was affected.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/northtree_socal_fires_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/northtree_socal_fires_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Historic Fort Monroe

2007-12-12T05:23:00.001-08:00

Colorado Camper

Explore the history of Fort Monroe, Virginia.

Fort Monroe in Virginia is a US Army base with a fascinating history. This KML presents a historical account of the base by displaying photographs, descriptions and links contained within beautifully crafted description bubbles.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/fort_monroe_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/fort_monroe_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Art Déco Montréal

2007-12-12T05:22:00.000-08:00

Art Déco Montréal

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showthreaded.php/Cat/0/Number/1032099

View a KML exploring Montréal's art déco heritage.

In this KML, you can explore Montréal's impressive art déco history. Each placemark description bubble provides photographic and textual information offering a fascinating insight into this period of artistic experimentation.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/art_deco_montreal_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/art_deco_montreal_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

A Virtual Ride on The Glacier Express

2007-11-21T04:25:00.003-08:00

Virtual Tourism

http://www.virtualtourism.blogspot.com

Take a virtual ride on the Glacier Express, Switzerland.

From Zermatt in the west to St Moritz in the east, the Glacier Express provides passengers with a spectacular view of Switzerland's beautiful scenery. Now, you can join in this experience by touring the route and viewing videos of the main stops. Viewing tip: Turn on 'terrain' in your "Layers" for maximum effect.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/glacier_express_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/glacier_express_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth 4.2

National Parks of Hungary

2007-11-21T04:25:00.001-08:00

Szilágyi Gábor

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showthreaded.php/Cat/0/Number/373620

Take a tour of Hungary's national parks.

In this file, we are treated to a tour of Hungary's national parks. With overlays, descriptions and photographs, this KML provides many forms of information set in a geospatial context.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/national_parks_hungary_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/national_parks_hungary_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

MODIS Image of the Day Archive

2007-11-14T04:20:00.009-08:00

Matt Fox

http://www.gelib.com

View archived MODIS images of the day as overlays in Google Earth.

Put together by Matt Fox at GE Library, this KML offers the best images captured by MODIS. Each of these images has been overlaid onto the Earth giving fascinating insight into various weather conditions - from dust storms in the Arabian gulf to Hurricanes in the gulf of Mexico. As these images are "superoverlays", you can zoom in further to see the image in higher quality.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/modis_gelib_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/modis_gelib_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Trip Around Namibia

2007-11-14T04:20:00.007-08:00

Micki Daniel

http://instech.knox.k12tn.net/bltcinfo/GoogleEarth/GoogleEarthTravelLogs.htm

Tour Namibia in a rich geospatial context, reading descriptions and viewing photos along the way.

Tour Namibia in a rich geospatial context, reading descriptions and viewing photos along the way. Each placemark contains an image and brief journal entry about the traveller's experiences across this spectacular part of Africa.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/namibia_trip_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/namibia_trip_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Voyages of Matthew Flinders

2007-11-14T04:20:00.005-08:00

Stephen Nicholson

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/992723

Geographically explore the life of one of history's most accomplished navigators.

In this beautifully crafted KML, you can view the places that formed part of Captain Matthew Flinder's voyages to map Australia. Each placemark contains a highly informative description bubble enabling you to read a travelogue of Flinders' adventures around Australia.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/matthew_flinders_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/matthew_flinders_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Photographic Tour of Iceland

2007-11-14T04:20:00.003-08:00

Mill House Photography

http://www.millhouse.nl

Take a photographic tour of Iceland's beautiful scenery.

In this KML, you can view lots of high quality photographs showing off Iceland's spectacular scenery. From the Northern Lights and glaciers to urban Reykjavík and....Broccoli...! Yep that's right...Broccoli...!

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/iceland_waypoints_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/iceland_waypoints_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Cosmic Ray Shower Animation

2007-11-14T04:20:00.001-08:00

cosine Science & Computing BV

http://www.cosine.nl

View a fascinating animation showing cosmic ray shower analysis.

This KML provides a fascinating insight into the changes that occur when a cosmic ray hits the Earth. By pressing the animation play button in the top of the viewer, you can view the levels of energy hitting the ground. This type of KML can prove very useful in communicating scientific data to large numbers of people. Viewing tip: To the left of the time slider, is a small "clock" icon. This will allow you to control the speed of the animation. Try viewing this animation at different speeds.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/cosmic_ray_shower_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/cosmic_ray_shower_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Great Green Buildings

2007-11-07T10:24:00.000-08:00

BuildingGreen, Inc.

http://www.buildinggreen.com

Explore a KML showcasing "Green" buildings.

"What are "green buildings"? This KML showcases buildings across the United States that are included in the Department of Energy's High Performance Buildings Database, which features buildings that meet certain energy and environmental performance guidelines. Be sure to click the "View 3D model in Google Earth" link to see a 3D virtual representation of the building."

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/great_green_buildings_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/great_green_buildings_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

XMM-Newton Gallery

2007-11-07T04:34:00.000-08:00

XMM-Newton Science Operations Centre, ESA

http://xmm.esac.esa.int

View data collected by the XMM-Newton observatory in Sky.

Orbiting high above the Earth is the XMM-Newton observatory (named after Sir Isaac Newton). The European Space Agency have crafted this KML showing data collected by the program - matching the information available in Google Sky. Descriptions, photos and links are all included to provide a fascinating tour of space.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/esa_sky_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/esa_sky_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth 4.2

Pict'Earth San Diego 2007 Wildfire Data

2007-11-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

Pict Earth

http://pictearth.com

View two very high resolution images showing the destruction caused by the Southern California fires.

The Southern California fires of October 2007 were some of the most ferocious the state has ever seen. The ability for the public to be geographically informed played an important part in the disaster response to the fires. Pict'Earth are a company who specialize in the collection of high resolution imagery and have provided a sample image to us showing the devastation caused by the flames. This is a prime example of using Google Earth as a platform to rapidly provide information in a geographical context.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/pict_earth_fire_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/pict_earth_fire_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

German Panoramas

2007-11-06T22:05:00.000-08:00

fotoausflug.de

http://www.fotoausflug.de/en-index.html

View high quality panoramas from several German cities.

In this KML, you can view geographically organized panoramas for several German cities. Each description bubble contains a preview image and description of the place along with a link to the panorama that you can explore.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/fotoausflug_de_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/fotoausflug_de_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

James Joyce's "A Portrait of....."

2007-11-06T10:30:00.012-08:00

David Herring

http://edweb.tusd.k12.az.us/dherring/ge/googleearth.htm

Take a geographical tour of the novel "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man."

"A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man" is one of author James Joyce's most famous works. By using Google Earth, David Herring from the Google Earth Education Community has told Joyce's story geographically by showing the places in the novel. This KML is a prime example of enhancing information through geography.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/james_joyce_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/james_joyce_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Transit of Venus

2007-11-06T10:30:00.009-08:00

Steven van Roode

http://www.transitofvenus.nl

Check out the where next transit of Venus will be visible from.

In 2012, a transit of Venus takes place(when Venus crosses between the Earth and the Sun). This KML explores both historical observations from previous transits and where will be the best place to view the next one from.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/transit_venus_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/transit_venus_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Current Air Quality

2007-11-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

Terradex

http://www.terradex.com

What is the air quality like right now? Find out here.

This KML provides real time monitoring of the current air quality in the United States, United Kingdom and Hong Kong. Updated every hour, air quality from hundreds of monitoring stations is shown giving a break down of the results. This type of KML can prove very useful for those with health problems (and those providing care), allowing them to plan their movement better and prepare for any potential issues that may arise from a peak in pollutants.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/terradex_air_quality_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/terradex_air_quality_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Walk Highlands

2007-11-06T10:15:00.000-08:00

Walkhighlands

http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk

Walk the Scottish highlands from the comfort of your home.

In this KML, you can walk the Scottish highlands. First virtually, then if you feel like some fresh air and exercise, download a GPS track to your device and set off! Viewing tip: Turn on the "Terrain" in your layers to explore the area of outstanding natural beauty.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/walk_highlands_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/walk_highlands_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Virtual Tourism Videos

2007-10-31T03:56:00.000-07:00

Virtual Tourism

http://www.virtualtourism.blogspot.com

Tour the world from the air, viewing videos along the way.

With nearly 400 geographically organized YouTube videos to explore, Virtual Tourism have crafted this KML offering a dual perspective of the world - from the air and from the ground. From the red centre of Australia to the bustling cityscapes of Manhattan, this KML is sure to whet any explorer's appetit.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/virtual_tourism_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/virtual_tourism_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth 4.2

On The Road

2007-10-23T12:27:00.001-07:00

Michael Hess

http://littourature.blogspot.com

Geographically explore "On The Road" by Jack Kerouac.

How people tell stories through KML is something that interests many of us. Previously, we featured a KML showing Jack Kerouac's "On The Road". This KML of the same novel, focuses on the main character; Sal Paradise and follows the travels across America. Each placemark contains information relating back to the relevant chapter, providing a better understanding of the places mentioned.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/on_the_road_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/on_the_road_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Influenza Seasonality in Brazil

2007-10-23T12:24:00.003-07:00

Origem Scientific Consultancy

http://www.origem.info

View a fascinating animation exploring influenza trends in Brazil.

In this KML, you can view a powerful visualiztion of influenza seasonality in Brazil. Using a variety of overlays and polygons, Wladimir J. Alonso and Andre Marra, from the Origem Scientific Consultancy have annotated data collected on top of the viewer, making available to us all the findings of studies into the circulation of influenza and pneumonia. Be sure to press the time animation play button (in the top of the view) to view the animation.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/influenza_brazil_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/influenza_brazil_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

New Seven Wonders of the World in Video

2007-10-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

MIBAZAAR

http://www.mibazaar.com

You've seen the new seven wonders from space, now get a ground level perspective.

The latest version of Google Earth 4.2 enables YouTube videos to be embedded into the placemark description balloons. In this example "Mibazaar" has included YouTube videos to match the new seven wonders of the world. So now, not only can you view these spectacles from space, but you can see them from the ground too.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small//seven_wonders_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/seven_wonders_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth 4.2

Live coverage of the San Diego fires from KPBS

2007-10-23T12:21:00.001-07:00

KPBS

http://www.kpbs.org

See live coverage of the San Diego fires from KPBS

Beginning on October 20, 2007, wildfires began to ravage areas of Southern California. See continuing updates of the San Diego fires, including evacuated areas, courtesy of KPBS's coverage.

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/z0302a1700/earth_fire_sm.jpg

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/z0302a1700/earth_fire_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Uptown Square, Chicago

2007-10-16T14:22:00.001-07:00

MMNeighbors.com

http://www.magnoliamaldenneighbors.com

View a 3D model of uptown Chicago

This KML shows an area of Chicago with a rich history and renewed development. The Magnolia / Maldenne neighbors association have created this 3D model allowing you to view the regeneration that has taken place in the area. Using Sketchup (a 3D modelling tool), 3D bars, restaurants and banks have been placed on top of the map to show the onogoing economic development. This combined use can prove particularly useful for town planners and other groups wanting to provide an overview of changes taking place.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/uptown_square_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/uptown_square_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

NOAA Estuarine Bathymetry

2007-10-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

NOAA

http://estuarinebathymetry.noaa.gov

Think the terrain above land is varied? Try going underwater!

Many of us have seen those terrain shaded maps which show the variable terrain above ground - but what about our "blue planet"? NOAA have created this KML which allows you to explore bathymetric (the study of water depth) data for many of America's esturies. To view, click on the placemark description bubble and open the top option "View Bathymetry". This will load an image overlay of the data captured, using a shaded relief scale. This kind of use is beneficial for many scientific studies - from erosion to navigation.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/noaa_bathy_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/noaa_bathy_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Megalithic Portal

2007-10-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

Megalithic Portal

http://www.megalithic.co.uk

View an extremely comprehensive KML, exploring our ancient planet.

A megalith is a large stone or boulder that was used in the creation of a monument - Stonehenge being the most famous example. There are thousands of these structures located around the world - from Australia to the UK. Now, you can explore a KML that has geographically organized many of the sites into one detailed file. Viewing tip: Please allow a few moments for this KML to load and avoid turning on all folders at the same time.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/megalithic_portal_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/megalithic_portal_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth

Alaska Field Trip

2007-10-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

ATEEC

http://bbs.keyhole.com/ubb/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/1023607

Go on a virtual field trip to Alaska and explore the fragile ecosystem.

The Alaskan landscape is truely one of the Earth's most beautiful spectacles. This area is capable of providing many energy resources, particularly fossil fuels. But with this comes a risk that the fragile ecosystem will be damaged. In this beautifully designed KML, students can take a virtual field trip to Alaska and explore the current issues there. Along with text, photos and links, questions are asked of the students enabling them to consider the many factors involved in environmental planning. This is a prime example of using Google Earth to enhance and enrich an individual's education - through geography.

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/small/alaska_tour_sm.jpg

http://earth.google.com/gallery/images/large/alaska_tour_lg.jpg

Open in Google Earth