Google has this week announced that their Google Views service will soon be merging with Google Maps and the Google Street View service, enabling users to explore the oceans of the world underwater from the comfort of their armchair.
The new feature has been enabled in honor of World Oceans Day and the video below provides more information of the new service.
Importance of Ocean Exploration
Google explains:
“Covering more than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface, the ocean remains one of the most uncharted and undiscovered ecosystems on the planet. Home to the majority of life on Earth, the ocean acts as its life support system, controlling everything from our weather and rainfall to the oxygen we breathe. Yet despite the ocean’s vital importance, the ocean is changing at a rapid rate due to climate change, pollution, and overfishing, making it one of the most serious environmental issues we face today.”
The integration of Google Views with Google Maps and Google Street View is a significant step towards raising awareness about the importance of ocean conservation. By providing a virtual window into the underwater world, Google aims to educate the public about the rich biodiversity that exists beneath the waves and the urgent need to protect these ecosystems.
Features and Benefits
The new underwater exploration feature allows users to virtually dive into some of the most stunning and ecologically significant marine environments around the globe. From the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to the coral reefs of the Caribbean, users can experience the beauty and complexity of underwater life without leaving their homes. This immersive experience is not only educational but also serves as a powerful tool for advocacy and conservation efforts.
For example, users can explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, observe the majestic movements of sea turtles, and even witness the eerie beauty of shipwrecks that have become artificial reefs. These virtual dives are made possible through high-resolution panoramic images captured by specialized underwater cameras. These images are then stitched together to create a seamless, 360-degree view of the underwater environment.
Moreover, the integration with Google Maps means that users can easily switch between exploring terrestrial and marine environments, providing a comprehensive view of our planet’s diverse ecosystems. This feature is particularly useful for educators and researchers who can use it as a teaching tool to illustrate the interconnectedness of land and sea.
To view the world’s oceans under the water, jump over to the Google View website via the link below.
Source: Earth Outreach : Google
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