How to Create Google Earth 3D Maps

Google Earth is a popular tool for navigating the globe in a virtual space. The program offers many features to entertain and educate the user on the geography and landscapes of both remote and urban areas. This free program is an exciting way for anyone to interact with the planet. A cornerstone of the Google Earth arsenal is the impressive three-dimensional display of cities and natural features. The program is designed with 3D viewing in mind and displays most content on a 3D map by default. However, the user can enhance the 3D experience with some customization.

Instructions

1

Download the Google Earth program for free at Earth.google.com. Visit the site and click the "Agree and Download" button after reading the Google Earth Terms of Service. The installation file will download.

2

Double-click the downloaded file to begin the Google Earth installation. The installer will automatically download additional content and complete the installation.

3

Launch the Google Earth program after it is installed.

4

Navigate to any desired location on the planet. Click and drag on the virtual globe to face a particular area, then zoom in using the navigation buttons to the right of the globe. Alternatively, type in an address in the upper left of the screen in the "Fly To" field and press the "Enter" button.

5

Lower your elevation setting for the viewing perspective. Manipulate the field of view and elevation by zooming in with the navigation controls on the right side of the chart. The best 3D views in Google Earth occur when the elevation is lower than 12,000 feet. The eye elevation is noted in the lower right of the window.

6

Click the "3D Buildings" and "Terrain" check boxes in the "Layers" panel in the lower left of the map window. If the area you are viewing supports 3D content, a map will appear featuring both geography and buildings in 3D.