GIS5007 Module 7: Google Earth

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It's the final lab module, Module 7: Google Earth!

Throughout the lecture, we learned what cartography is heading towards in the future, from 3D aspects of map displays to how the data itself is recorded/collected. The lecture focused on the future of volunteered geographic information (VGI) and its significant role in data collection and representation. VGI is a means of retrieving data from citizens in the community; hence, the name "volunteered geographic information" — people volunteer to share their accounts and provide data on various topics and their spatial relation on the earth.

As for the lab, we focused greatly on Google Earth Pro and KMLs. I've had mixed experiences with Google Earth Pro and KMLs. ArcPro didn't let users identify in the "Environment" settings to transfer domain descriptions when running the Layer to KML tool (to my memory, for years). However, since then, they have re-established that feature, which is a relief. Still, Google Earth Pro is not my favorite to work in, especially when compared to ArcPro. Although this lab definitely gave me a better appreciation for Google Earth Pro.

Screenshot of South Florida Population and Features within Google Earth Pro.

As you can see above, we had to bring in the surface water features of South Florida into Google Earth Pro and apply the appropriate symbology for each class. Since we had to convert the feature class for the surface water into a KML, we used ArcPro's "Layer to KML" tool. From there, we brought in all the KMLs into Google Earth as well as the image overlay that you see containing the legend. 

We even were guided through how to create placemarks, which allows you to zoom in on an area of interest that you can indicate on the map. We placed several of these placemarks throughout Miami, Downtown Miami, Downtown Fort Lauderdale, Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg, and Downtown Tampa. Using these placemarks, we created a brief tour video showing each location of interest. It was fascinating to me that you can record a video clip and group it with these placemarks, then be able to package it all into a KML. I never really thought to do something like that, but it's cool to know!


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