Search (and Rescue) Engine

Google can help you find the average annual rainfall of Glendale, California (17.49 inches, in case you were wondering) or a picture of Millard Fillmore's grave (it's refreshingly unpretentious). But can the world's most used search engine help with the search for a downed aviator? Google Earth is doing exactly that as the search for Steve Fossett continues.

We listened to a National Public Radio story that explains where Google Earth gets its satellite photos, how often they are updated, how new photos are being shot for this search, and how thousands of people are joining in the search without leaving their desks. We also discussed the privacy implications of Google Earth and similar services, especially as new communications satellites are launched that can shoot ever-clearer pictures.

Gabcast! Club MediaNote #72




These MC101s were all smiles as we bagan our day of Downtown field trips at the Los Angeles Times on Friday.