Dying Reef Lives On Through Google

For those of you who’ll never see the world’s largest coral reef before its expected demise in 30 years, The Great Barrier Reef will live on through Google Maps.  The search engine giant has begun adding satellite shots and detailed diagrams of the reef’s geography for viewing by future generations.  Working alongside the reef’s Marine Park Authority,  the maps are anticipated to generate tourist revenue for Australia.  Google Australia’s head of geo products, Raul Vera, argues the maps will help “plan holiday travels, scope out your dives, engage your students, and visualise the reef with greater interactivity.”

The maps also allow viewers to tag spots and upload photos or videos from their travels for posterity.

[via The Sydney Morning Herald]