If you came across some revived Atlantis attention, well it’s because of some undersea grid found by some Google Earth users.
Google Earth recently allowed users to take a look at terrain under the sea and some were able to make out some grid-like pattern which resembled city streets. And just like that, Atlantis was back for another round of revived talks.
Turns out, however, the grid was only caused by overlaying data sets coming from sonar data to map the ocean floor, and not city streets as some would like to believe. Google has updated its app and the grid that started it all has been removed.
The Myth of Atlantis
The legend of Atlantis has fascinated people for centuries. First mentioned by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato in his dialogues “Timaeus” and “Critias,” Atlantis was described as a powerful and advanced civilization that sank into the ocean “in a single day and night of misfortune.” Over the years, numerous theories have emerged about the possible location of Atlantis, ranging from the Mediterranean Sea to the Caribbean. The discovery of the grid-like pattern on Google Earth reignited interest in this age-old mystery, even though it was eventually debunked.
Advancements in Ocean Mapping
Google also made some tweaks on its ocean mapping and is now more accurate. Google Earth has also expanded its sea floor area viewable on the app, as it is now at 15% from the previous 10%. This improvement is significant for researchers and enthusiasts alike, as it provides a more detailed and accurate representation of the ocean floor. The technology behind this involves the use of sonar data, satellite imagery, and other advanced mapping techniques to create a comprehensive view of underwater terrains.
For example, sonar technology sends sound waves to the ocean floor and measures the time it takes for the echoes to return. This data is then used to create detailed maps of the underwater landscape. Satellite imagery, on the other hand, can capture large areas of the ocean surface, providing a broader context for the sonar data. By combining these different data sets, Google Earth can offer a more accurate and detailed view of the ocean floor.
These advancements are not just for the sake of curiosity. They have practical applications in various fields such as marine biology, geology, and environmental science. For instance, more accurate maps can help scientists study underwater ecosystems, track changes in the ocean floor, and even predict natural disasters like tsunamis and earthquakes.
Moreover, the improved mapping capabilities can aid in the search for shipwrecks and other underwater artifacts. Maritime archaeologists can use these detailed maps to locate and study historical shipwrecks, providing valuable insights into our past. The technology can also assist in identifying potential underwater hazards, making navigation safer for ships and submarines.
In conclusion, while the grid-like pattern on Google Earth may not have led to the discovery of Atlantis, it has highlighted the incredible advancements in ocean mapping technology. These improvements not only satisfy our curiosity about the mysteries of the deep sea but also have practical applications that can benefit various scientific fields. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more detailed and accurate representations of our planet’s underwater landscapes, opening up new possibilities for exploration and discovery.
Via: Slashgear
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