GIS4007-Module 7-Google Earth

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For the last and final lab, we explored the capabilities of Google Earth as a platform for visualizing and sharing geographic data. The goal of the module was to convert GIS data from ArcGIS Pro into KMZ format (Keyhole Markup Language) and use it to create an interactive and accessible map of Southern Florida. Along with the map, we were also tasked with creating a recorded guided tour to help viewers navigate major urban areas.


 

The map I created features a detailed dot density representation of the population across Southern Florida that was provided to us, which appears above all other layers for clear visibility. Additional elements include hydrography layers categorized by waterbody type, county boundaries that include interactive pop-up attributes, and a custom legend image overlay to assist with map viewer interpretation.

A recorded tour in Google Earth that guides viewers through several major metropolitan areas. The tour includes stops at the Miami metro area, Downtown Miami, Fort Lauderdale, the Tampa Bay region, St. Petersburg, and Downtown Tampa. Each location highlights different levels of 3D modeling, from photorealistic skyscrapers in Miami to LiDAR-based models in Tampa that include buildings, trees, and even some vehicles.

To create this map, I started by symbolizing and exporting relevant layers from ArcGIS Pro using the Layer to KML tool to export this hydrology data into Earth. Once in Google Earth, I organized the imported KMZ files into folders and positioned the legend as an image overlay for easy reference that was also provided to us. I then added placemarks for each tour stop, adjusted the viewing angles, and recorded a tour using Google Earth’s record feature.

Although the process came with much lag due to the age of the Google Earth Software within a Virtual Machine, this module was a great introduction to combining traditional GIS workflows with public-facing visualization tools. It was ultimately a rewarding experience to take data that typically is only designed in and for ArcGIS, and transform it into something that anyone can explore.

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