View any location in the United States at a one-meter resolution-without any expense

Researchers at Florida International University's High-Performance Database Research Center (HPDRC) have recently unveiled TerraFly, a new Internet-based technology that makes it possible for users to "fly over" vast land areas using only an ordinary Web browser. By using high-resolution imagery collected by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and other sources, users can experience an overhead view of almost any location in the United States at a one-meter resolution-without the expense of standard GIS application software. Because TerraFly offers one of the most cost-effective paths to copyrighted GIS data integration, its creators expect to attract a large and diverse set of customers, ranging from local and regional governments to realtors, environmentalists, and educators. TerraFly's data-integration capacities allow any of these groups to customize GIS data with graphic overlays that contain information specific to their industry. For instance, realtors might overlay information about property values, neighborhood demographics, and proximity of shops and schools, producing a comprehensive visual database tailored to the needs of their home-shopping clientele. Other industries could produce similarly customized results. TerraFly is also a great tool for casual Web surfers, who can type in an address or zip code and be given immediate access to a detailed overhead view of their desired location.

Visit: www.terrafly.com