Google Maps Get Better Eyesight With GeoEye-1

There is a new eye in the sky -- GeoEye-1 -- and while Google isn't the only one involved in the satellite action, the company is already receiving high-resolution images that are beautifully detailed. Google has gotten exclusive rights to integrate these 50-centimeter-resolution images taken from GeoEye-1 into mapping applications, so we already know what is in store for the Google Maps and Google Earth users around the globe.While Windsor, Virginia, doesn't have much in the way of satellite imagery (granted, it probably isn't worth the effort of pointing a satellite there anyways), Kutztown University in Pennsylvania comes under the spotlight, as it has become part of the world's first highest-resolution commercial satellite image taken and distributed online.

Extreme high-quality imagery from GeoEye-1

It is looking good -- actually, very good -- from here. Ironically though, this is only a fraction of how good it could possibly be. The satellite is capable of taking images at 43-centimeter resolution, but government regulations prohibit Google from accessing any satellite imagery finer than 50-centimeters in resolution. Still, this resolution should be great for those people who want to check out the sights from the comfort of their own home. The GeoEye-1 is likely to be put through its paces in the near future, as Google steps up to the plate to provide high-quality satellite images for the Google Earth and Google Maps products. Watch out though as the GeoEye-2 is preparing to be sent up into orbit by 2012. This one will be capable of producing 25-centimeter resolution images. And, although, there is no official word on whether or not Google will be affiliated with GeoEye-2, it is likely to increase the resolution that Google will be able to provide to consumers in the future.