Module 7: Google Earth

 

    In this week's module, we learned about and used some of the power of Google Earth as a tool for visualizing and sharing our lab's spatial data. The lab focused on converting ArcGIS layers into KML files, constructing interactive maps, and creating recorded tours, all of which we used to enhance our own spatial storytelling. These exercises helped us gain hands-on experience with organizing Google Earth layers, overlaying images, and using Google Earth to navigate and record different perspectives of Southern Florida.

The resulting map presents a dot density visualization of the population across Southern Florida, layered alongside hydrography features and county boundaries. These elements displayed above in Google Earth Pro provide a "geographic snapshot", making it easy for viewers to comprehend population distribution patterns relative to the Florida's natural and administrative boundaries.

To bring this map to life, I began by converting key ArcGIS layers into KML format by following the instructions given at the beginning of the lab. Using Google Earth Pro, I took the new KML file of these layers and inserted them into the program and overlayed them on the map. The lab then had us strategically place and position a legend overlay from a .png image provided in the module 7 data. The final part of the lab was creating an interactive tour, guiding would-be viewers through notable locations like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa, offering a dynamic 3D exploration of urban landscapes and spatial relationships that could only be done in Google Earth.

This lab was a fascinating dive into cartography, allowing us to transform static GIS data into an engaging, interactive experience. I hope to learn more in the future about how to create some examples like we saw in the example Google Tour blog.