ToolMapping & Geospatial

Google Earth

A geospatial tool with satellite imagery, historical imagery, and 3D terrain used for geolocation.

ElectionsTechUpdated March 1, 2025
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Overview

Google Earth provides global satellite and aerial imagery, historical imagery, and 3D terrain. Its historical imagery slider is especially valuable for confirming when a feature existed.

Features

  • High-resolution satellite and aerial imagery
  • Historical imagery timeline
  • 3D terrain and measurement tools

Typical election use cases

  • Geolocating photos and videos by matching landmarks
  • Confirming that a structure existed at a given time
  • Measuring distances and analyzing terrain

Limitations

Imagery dates and resolution vary by location. Combine with street-level imagery and other maps for confident matches.

#maps#satellite#geolocation#verification