Google's new mapping feature is getting a lot of (deserved) attention for its easy access to satellite imagery (thanks to Google's judicious purchase of satellite mapping company Keyhole). Microsoft tried much the same thing when it set up TerraServer, but Google's version is easier and more fun to use. That probably doesn't surprise you. Anyway, here's another cool Google Map application: Sprol
Google's new mapping feature is getting a lot of (deserved) attention for its easy access to satellite imagery (thanks to Google's judicious purchase of satellite mapping company Keyhole). Microsoft tried much the same thing when it set up TerraServer, but Google's version is easier and more fun to use. That probably doesn't surprise you.
Anyway, here's another cool Google Map application: Sprol, which homes in on the places on Earth we humans have built over and messed up. One of my faves is the New Jersey Turnpike, next to the wastewater treatment plant that gives New Jersey its piquant aroma when visited from the direction of Manhattan. Sorry I can't show it to you -- having problems uploading images at the home office.
I know, I know, it's the "Garden State." It's beautiful -- except in the parts I've visited. And I've been to West Orange!
Here is some finger-wagging from the Sprolers:
Sprol is a planetary sightseeing blog. Visit some of the worst places in the world via satellite imagery. Our mission is to use the powers of space imaging to show people the visual macroscopic effects of our decisions and behavior. Since previous generations have not had the advantage of this viewpoint it is our responsibility to use it wisely.
Depopulation Patterns Get Weird
A recent ranking of “declining” cities heavily features some of the most expensive cities in the country — including New York City and a half-dozen in the San Francisco Bay Area.
California Exodus: Population Drops Below 39 Million
Never mind the 40 million that demographers predicted the Golden State would reach by 2018. The state's population dipped below 39 million to 38.965 million last July, according to Census data released in March, the lowest since 2015.
Chicago to Turn High-Rise Offices into Housing
Four commercial buildings in the Chicago Loop have been approved for redevelopment into housing in a bid to revitalize the city’s downtown post-pandemic.
How California Transit Agencies are Addressing Rider Harassment
Safety and harassment are commonly cited reasons passengers, particularly women and girls, avoid public transit.
Significant Investments Needed to Protect LA County Residents From Climate Hazards
A new study estimates that LA County must invest billions of dollars before 2040 to protect residents from extreme heat, increasing precipitation, worsening wildfires, rising sea levels, and climate-induced public health threats.
Federal Rule Raises Cost for Oil and Gas Extraction on Public Lands
An update to federal regulations raises minimum bonding to limit orphaned wells and ensure cleanup costs are covered — but it still may not be enough to mitigate the damages caused by oil and gas drilling.
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