Google Earth users can dive in the sea

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Google Inc has updated its online map of the world to add the more than two- thirds of the planet that lies underwater and provide a way to view changes to glaciers and other geography over time. The new edition of Google Earth, unveiled in San Francisco on Monday with an appearance by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, was trumpeted as a powerful way to raise awareness about environmental issues such as global warming. Using photographs and video of fish and other marine life from partners including the National Geographic Society, Google Ocean allows Web surfers to dive under waves and glide over the sea floor. It was touted as the latest fruit of Google's freewheeling research culture, even as questions swirl about the company's commitment to funding projects that do not contribute to the bottom line right away. John Hanke, director of Google Earth and Maps, said Google Ocean is less focussed on creating immediate revenue than helping to "build support for our perception as a leader." The opportunities to generate revenue from Google Earth will come later, he added. Google said last week its sales in the fourth quarter rose 18percent year-over-year to $5.7 billion (4 billion pounds), even as the U.S. economic recession and slowing advertising spending stunted growth at rivals such as Yahoo Inc. In developing Google Ocean, the company used sonar data from the U.S. Navy, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association and others to create a visual representation of the topographic landscape hidden beneath the sea. Google, headquartered in Mountain View, California, also unveiled a three-dimensional map of Mars on Monday based on satellite images, as well as panoramic photos taken from the Mars Rovers. And a new "timeline" feature on Google Earth allows a person to view a succession of satellite images of the same location over the years, tracking changes to the environment. Vice President of Search Products Marissa Mayer said [...]

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