Google

Goggle serves up three map services, Google Maps, Google Earth, and Google Sky. Google maps is an internet favorite for locating addresses and retrieving directions. It offers a bevy of features: terrain view, scalable satellite and aerial photographic view, traffic conditions, street view and more.

Google Earth is a virtual globe browser, now expanded to include Earth’s Moon and Mars. Satellite views complemented by aerial photographs allow the viewer to observe the Earth’s surface and sea floor at a variety of scales. It provides for oblique views, too. For building flyover tours, try Google Earth’s Tour function – an exceptional tool. Google Sky provides views of stars and celestial bodies.

Microsoft World Wide Telescope

World Wide Telescope (WWT) uses ground- and space-based satellites to explore the universe in 3D navigation. WWT also provides much of the same satellite and aerial photography imagery for Earth as does Google Earth.

ESRI

ESRI is the leading manufacturer of GIS – geographic information system – software in the world. Their new ArcGIS Online product, “Maps and Apps for Everyone,” provides an environment for discovering, accessing, and visualizing geospatial information. You can build and share your own maps with ArcGIS Online.

While still in beta form, this sort of approach has the potential to be a powerful and compelling geographic tool for educators and students alike. Check it out.