See AIM Fields in Google Earth
See AIM Fields in Google Earth
Using this free software provided by Google, it is now possible to see an overhead view of each AIM field using satellite imagery and 3D graphics. If you've already seen Google Earth, you know how cool this is. If you haven't used Google Earth, this is a great reason to check it out!
What is Google Earth?
Google Earth is 3-dimensional global mapping software that Google makes available for free. Once you download and install it, you can freely explore the surface of the entire globe in realistic 3D. As you explore, the software downloads and displays detailed satellite imagery from Google's servers, allowing you to zoom all the way to street level in some cities.
Will it work for me?
That depends on the computer on which you are trying to use it. First, Google Earth is only available for Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Mac OS X (10.3.9 +). Second, you must have a fairly decent computer to run it (for more specific details, see Google Earth's download page). Finally, you need a high-speed (broadband) internet connection, such as cable or DSL.
Okay, how do I do it?
Just follow these easy steps:
- Download Google Earth.
- Install Google Earth on your computer. Simply double-click the file once it's finished downloading.
- Download the AIM Fields data file for Google Earth. This is a very small file in Google Earth's KMZ format.
AIM Fields for Google Earth
The most recent KMZ data file with AIM fields for Google Earth.
Last updated: July 19, 2007 - Open the KMZ file in Google Earth. You can do this a couple of different ways, by a) double-clicking the file once it's downloaded, or b) opening Google Earth and clicking File -> Open and navigating to the KMZ file.
- Once the file is opened in Google Earth, you will see the list of AIM fields appear in the "Places" list on the left-hand side. Simply double-click the place name to go there!
Some Tips and Ideas:
Keeping and Updating the List:
- When you double-click the name of a field, Google Earth will take you to a view that approximately encompasses the whole city or town. For each city, you can zoom in much closer if you wish using the controls in Google Earth.
- To see an automated "tour" of all the fields in the list, just click once on the folder "AIM Fields" in the "Places" list on the left-hand side, then click the Play button at the bottom right of the "Places" section. Sit back while Google Earth takes you from place to place on the list, pausing for a few seconds at each field.
- To see where AIM fields are in relation to familiar country borders, click to check the "Borders" checkbox near the bottom of the window. To have Google Earth point out cities and town as you browse, scroll down in the "Layers" list on the bottom left-hand side until you see one called "Populated Places," and check the box next to it.
- There are many other interesting possibilities that you can discover by turning on various layers in the "Layers" list and by checking the boxes under the compass at the bottom of the window.
Keeping and Updating the List:
- After loading the list using the file instructions above, the list of fields will appear in the "Temporary Places" folder in the "Places" section. If you want to keep them in your "Places" list for future use, right click the "AIM Fields" folder and click "Save to My Places." The list will now be kept in Google Earth and will be available every time you use the software in the future.
If you have any questions about this, or have tips and ideas of your own to suggest, please email rob@aimsunset.org.