I was having a gander at some of my RSS feeds and came across this little gem. This isn’t the first time Google ran into trouble in terms of mapping the world. China had a thing to say or two about their military installations showing up on Google Maps. Now it seems, it’s Google Earth’s turn to take some heat. Under the anti-terrorism banner, the influential state of California wishes to airbrush some key sensitive areas that could be prone to a terrorist attack.
Unfortunately, I would imagine many structures would fall under this category, which would mean California would be reduced to a white blob ala Area 51 with a smattering of greenery and highways that seemingly leads to nowhere.
They could take it one-step further and erase an entire country. Is North Korea giving you some trouble? No problem, dig out the Paint Bucket tool to start from scratch and then use the Clone tool with a country of choice.
Who needs politicians to solve world problems anyway?
Miscellaneous
airbrush bill, Google Earth
Who killed JFK? Unfortunately, Google Earth may not be able to answer that one, but it may be able to tell us whether the Loch Ness monster exists or not. That’s because in version 5.0 of Google Earth, they have added underwater exploration. Imagine exploring The Great Barrier Reef and the plethora of sea life that inhabits our oceans.
Of course, there are probably some limitations. You won’t be seeing all marine wildlife captured in 3D, but this is a start. I have a feeling a lot of the source material will be taken from the highly acclaimed BBC production called Planet Earth. I have the box set myself and it’s fantastic, especially in HD. In addition, there will be some interesting facts from the experts at National Geographic, so overall a very good collaboration I think.
Perhaps we may also discover where Moby Dick hangs out, since they have included diving and travel hotspots. Now I wonder if I can find the best place to fish for cod. I fancy some fish and chips tonight
Tech
Google Earth, National Geographic, Planet Earth
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