we've got the whole world, in our hands (earth.google.com)

Member Name: bruffyboy

Product:	earth.google.com
Date:	21/02/09 (125 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: free!

Disadvantages: none

WHAT IS IT:
This brilliant program allows you to search and view the whole planet through accessing satellite photography taken at a resolution of between six inches and fifteen meters. The program is available free, although a commercial version will cost you $400 a year.

IS IT ANY GOOD:
It is pretty scary to think that this is the stuff we can access for free, so what the hell do the government have? I bet they can see and hear everything!

This program has shot to fame in the public but only for its most basic use - go and find your house! Whilst this is good fun in itself, there are lots of other features and uses, and here are some I have personally taken advantage of:

1) Plot your route - I ride a certain route on my racing bike every now and again, and was able to plot it on the map and find out the mileage (felt like more).

2) Check your hotel - if you're thinking of booking a certain hotel abroad, this is the perfect way of seeing its surrounding, as well as how close it is to the beach.

3) See the wonders of the world - from the pyramids to the Great Wall of China, you can see it all on here.

4) Directions - I have often used this program to give my wife directions when we're both sat here together.

The program gives a 2D bird's eye view, although some places have 3D. Given the way the program is progressing, I don't suppose it will be long until the whole world is in 3D.

They've also released a new version where you can see under the ocean, and you can also look up into the solar system from any position too.

IN CONCLUSION:
A mind blowing tool, and its free.

Summary: use it!