Cool things a GIS user might do with Google Earth

Ready for another list? This one provides some cool ideas for things that the GIS user might consider doing with Google earth. The top 10 list was created by browsing the stats from the downloaded apps in our Google maps and mashup API developer tools section at gisuser where we have about 100 apps listed. Topping out the list are apps developed for MapInfo users, ArcGIS users, a GPS extension, KML writers, and even a couple of mobile apps. See the list at http://www.gisuser.com/content/view/10514/ -- oh, speaking of mashups, the call for presentations for the O'reilly Media Where 2.0 event ends on Jan 5. More on that can be found at http://conferences.oreillynet.com/where2007/

Carolina business owners reminded to take advantage of location and mapping services to generate revenues

Kudos to the Carolina Newswire on this Top 10 listing that reminds the mainstream user how they can leverage the power of location (and maps) to generate revenues for their business. We all know that there loads of ways that geospatial technologies can help you gain a competitive advantage but its always cool to see the mainstream user be reminded. The list includes reminders about some of the open APIs that are available, adding driving directions to your website, and even adding a rooftop sign that will one day be seen by users of Google Earth and Google maps! See the article at http://carolinanewswire.com/news/News.cgi?database=columns.db&command=viewone&id=295

DigitalGlobe and Ball Aerospace prepare WorldView 2

Today from DigitalGlobe - the company has announced that Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corporation is building WorldView 2.  WorldView 2, the third satellite in DigitalGlobe's constellation of spacecraft, offers the highest collection capacity of earth imagery, and is the only next generation system to be built independent of U.S. Government financing.  The WorldView 2 satellite is scheduled to launch in late 2008 - see www.digitalglobe.com or more info at http://www.gisuser.com/content/view/10516/ - FYI: WorldView 1 is scheduled to be on-orbit in mid-2007 and WorldView 2 will operate at an altitude in excess of 800 kilometers and offer target selection flexibility and increased spectral capabilities