Google launched this week the already famous ocean exploration feature in its latest version of Google Earth, but that’s not all users can do. If you are passionate about space or extraterrestrial life, than there should be nothing more exciting than exploring Mars in a three-dimensional view.

 

The 3D Mars feature is the result of a two-year collaboration between Google and NASA’s Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, California. The two signed a Space Act Agreement back in 2006, according to which they would collaborate to make NASA data widely available.

 

The results of this collaboration now reflect in a rich 3D view of the planet, which includes virtual flies through Martian canyons and impressive mountains.

 

In addition to that, users can now get a whole new perspective about what Mars exploration truly means, by exploring it through the eyes of the NASA rovers.

 

NASA pointed out in a press release that Google Earth 5.0’s 3D Mars feature will not only offer the public a better understanding of Mars, but it will also provide a platform for researchers to share data similar to what Google Earth provides for Earth scientists.

 

Google Earth now has the chance of expanding its user base even further, since there are so many people interested in finding extraterrestrial life.

 

If there is one place in our solar system where life could indeed exist (besides Earth), that would be Mars. This is perhaps why so many are intrigued by the possibility, and so many investments have been made for the detailed study of the enigmatic Red Planet.