Al Gore Approves New "Google Oceans"

Can't get cooler that that kids! - HLG

Google Earth Goes Underwater
February 03, 2009 | by Christopher Nickson (Digitaltrends)

As a major addition to Google Earth, Google Ocean will map the ocean floor, letting users explore the terrain in 3D.


Google pushed out the boat at an event in San Francisco to launch a major upgrade to Google Earth. The software will now map the ocean floor with Google Ocean – and 70% of the earth is made up of water – letting users enjoy exploring in 3D, and taking the company a good swim closer to having the entire globe mapped out.

Attendee Al Gore said:

"You can not only zoom into whatever part of our planet's surface you wish to examine in closer detail, you can now dive into the world's ocean that covers almost three-quarters of the planet and discover new wonders that had not been accessible in previous versions."

The software will include videos on surf spots, shipwrecks and marine life, among other things. Google has worked with a number of partners, including the BBC and the National Geographic Society, on the venture.

Among other updates to Google Earth are virtual time travel, GPS, and even updates to Mars 3D.