In a move that may have surprised space enthusiasts, Google recently discontinued Google Sky Maps. However, for those who still wish to explore the solar system from their desktops, Google Maps in Space offers an intriguing alternative. This feature extends the familiar Google Maps experience beyond Earth, allowing users to virtually fly over a range of celestial bodies including Mercury, Venus, Mars, and several moons like Ganymede, Europa, and Pluto’s moon, Charon.
Google Maps in Space covers 21 different heavenly bodies and even includes a view of the International Space Station (ISS). While Google Earth Pro also supports interplanetary locations, navigating these areas can be less straightforward. Google Maps in Space provides a more intuitive and user-friendly platform for those interested in celestial exploration. Whether you’re working on a school project about Mars or simply indulging your curiosity about space, this tool offers a valuable resource.
To access Google Maps in Space, start by visiting the designated website. Be sure to include the trailing slash in the URL to avoid any errors. Once on the site, locate the “Layers” option at the bottom-left of the screen, which will default to Earth. Select “More,” then check the box labeled “Globe view” and refresh the page. This will display a list of planets and moons on the left-hand side of the screen. Clicking on any of these options will replace Earth with the chosen celestial body. Although there is no straightforward method to return to the list of planets without going back to the main page, the interface allows for zooming in and out and toggling between 2D and 3D views. In 3D view, you can adjust your perspective by holding Ctrl and using the mouse.
A noteworthy aspect of Google Maps in Space is its treatment of the ISS, which is presented similarly to Street View. However, recent complications involving the Boeing Starliner have cast a shadow over the ISS’s portrayal. Despite some interface limitations and the lack of a search feature for specific landmarks, Google Maps in Space offers an enjoyable and educational way to explore the solar system.