Onward and Downward – Google Earth Opens Oceans of Possibility
Since Google Earth launched in 2006 millions of people have used its virtual globe to “travel” around the planet, climb a digital version of Mount Everest and even fly into space – all from the comfort of their homes. Now the company plans to take on one of the last bastions of the unknown: the depths of the ocean.
Google Ocean, which will be included in Google Earth 5.0, will allow users to swim around underwater volcanoes, watch videos about exotic marine life, read about shipwrecks, contribute photos and watch unseen footage of historic ocean expeditions. The new additions to the program will include views of the ocean, and portions of the seabed. They will also provide detailed environmental data that will enhance information about the effect of climate change on the world’s seas and oceans.
Sylvia Earle, oceanographer and Explorer in Residence at the National Geographic Society, said: “I cannot imagine a more effective way to inspire awareness and caring for the blue heart of the planet than the new Ocean in Google Earth. For the first time, everyone from curious kids to serious researchers can see the world, the whole world, with new eyes.”
The world’s oceans cover more than 70 per cent of the planet’s surface and contain 80 per cent of all life on Earth, yet humans have only ever explored around 5 per cent of our oceans. Although it’s been said that we know more about outer space than our oceans, we do know that this great body of water holds deep secrets to our very existence.
Nearly 3,000 people have reached the summit of Mount Everest; over 450 people have been in outer space; 12 American astronauts have walked on the surface of the moon, but only two people, Jacques Piccard and Don Walsh, have been to the bottom of the ocean. And that happened in 1960 – nearly 50 years ago!
Marport is convinced that our planet’s future lies below the surface of our seas. As such, we will continue to innovate and develop advanced technologies to help explore and understand the world’s oceans.
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