Virtual Earth in Government

Microsoft’s newly launched Virtual Earth is perfect for wannabe globetrotters. Incorporating aerial photography and satellite imagery, Virtual Earth’s breakthrough technology allows users to navigate around the world in seconds at the touch of a button.

Virtual Earth integrates its globe-exploring service with mapping technology and takes 3D imaging to new heights, allowing users to see photo-realistic images of their world—not just grey boxes! While initially 15 cities have been mapped in 3D, Microsoft plans to map 5,000 more in the next five years.

The services Virtual Earth can render to institutions clearly extend far beyond search-and-explore fun. The United States government has already taken advantage of Virtual Earth’s high-quality imaging, using it to develop a way that allows the Government to track convicted criminals. By integrating Virtual Earth with the Government’s database of the locations of all paroled convicts, the Government can track parolees and alert local authorities when they move.

Another example of Microsoft Virtual Earth in Government is the mobile tactical collaboration system that has been introduced in the US. Virtual Earth’s incredibly high-resolution images give the authorities the ability to have constant, real-time surveillance of major roads. And, for example, if there is a traffic accident, Virtual Earth can transmit live images to the authorities so that they can address the situation in a prompt and effective manner.

With the introduction of Virtual Earth, Microsoft hopes to cater to new and overlooked consumers of web mapping, providing higher quality images and a greater range of capabilities to institutions as well as casual users. See link for more information and case studies.

Posted by Sandeep