Google has expanded the boundaries of Google Earth to include views of the universe with a new add-on called Sky. The tool, found in Google Earth 4.2, offers high-resolution photographs from the Hubble Space Telescope and educational information about stellar discoveries and constellations.
Getting to Google Sky was a little confusing, but it's actually an icon right in the middle of the page (circled). The first screen shows constellations to make it easier to find what you're looking for. With your mouse you can rotate 360 degrees around the sky and can also zoom in and out with your scroll wheel.
Credit: Google Earth
When you find a highlighted star, nebula or galaxy, you can zoom in. The diamond shape indicates more information is available. The Orion Nebula is located in the Orion galaxy -- it's the hunter's weapon.
Credit: Google Earth
Many stars, galaxies or interstellar phenomenon contain pictures and information -- some directly from the Hubble site.
Credit: Google Earth
Google Sky also has a special section on the life of stars. Here's the page on red stars that are nearing the end of the stellar life cycle.
Credit: Google Earth
Google Sky lets you zoom in for surprising details. This star is Betelguese, which is the right arm in the Orion galaxy. While unnamed on the map, it is depicted accurately as orange-red in colour and large.
Credit: Google Earth
Don't forget that this is a free beta. Out of nowhere pops directions to Anchorage, Alaska. It must be for travelling aliens or an addition to the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.
Credit: Google Earth
Another apparent bug is the Eiffel Tower that sits next to Ursa Major or the Big Dipper.
Credit: Google Earth
There's a feature called 'Planets in Motion' that tracks the planets of our solar system.
Credit: Google Earth
Here's a closer look at the Bug Nebula where you can click for a photo or more details.
Credit: Google Earth
This tool isn't limited to stars. There are images of galaxies, clusters, stellar winds and more.
Credit: Businesswire
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