When a geologist looks at Google Maps images, we usually filter out any human activity. But in the case of mines, that would be a mistake – the holes humans dig can tell us about the geology. What’s this? A big circular hole in the ground and large piles of bluish mine waste. The shadows are… Continue reading Looking from the sky at diamonds
Category: Great Geology in Google earth
Great Geology in Google Maps: mapping from above
In most cases, geological maps are made by piecing together observations of hundreds of individual outcrops. Boundaries between types of rock are covered in grass and sheep and have to be traced on the map later as a line between rock outcrops, like a inverted game of dot-to-dot. In areas like Himalayas the same boundaries may be visible in… Continue reading Great Geology in Google Maps: mapping from above
Great Geology in Google Maps: dunes
Google Maps is a great resource, particularly in satellite view. My favourite way to enjoy it is via the Chrome extension “Earth View from Google Maps“. This pops up a gorgeous image in every new tab. Many show human landscapes, but every now and then one appears that catches this geologist’s eye. This post is the… Continue reading Great Geology in Google Maps: dunes