Google announced today that they are upgrading Google Earth. Gone are the mosaic-looking pieces that comprised the old graphics. A much more seamless look is now in place.

From the official Google Blog:

The Google Earth globe is made from a mosaic of satellite and aerial photographs taken on different dates and under different lighting and weather conditions. Because of this variance, views of the Earth from high altitude can sometimes appear patchy.

Also, there is now a feature that allows you to share an image from within Google Earth.

Evan Parker, a software engineer working on Google Maps, made the announcement today. Screenshots were posted on the official Google Blog, including some side-by-side before-and-after shots of the old Google Earth vs the new.

Join me now in celebrating views from outer space courtesy of the 1978 Science Fiction Film Awards. 😉