Google Earth releases free 3D flight simulator: learn how to use it

Google Earth launched on June 12th a flight simulator - accessible directly through the browser - that allows the user to fly over any point on the planet with satellite images and 3D models of buildings loaded in real time, without installing any application.

Previously, the feature was practically considered a hidden Easter egg in Google Earth Pro (desktop only). Now, it has evolved into the mainstream. In addition to running on the web without installation, the updated version of the simulator brings better rendering and more efficient data streaming, as well as fewer crashes than the old Pro.

Described on Google for Developers as "pre-GA", the tool is still in an experimental phase, which means limited support and the possibility of future changes. The focus here is not high-fidelity aerodynamic training like in Microsoft Flight Simulator, but casual exploration and pure fun.

However, this apparent simplicity depends on a complex infrastructure behind it - warns Google. As the experience depends on streaming, flights at very high speeds or on low bandwidth connections may cause momentary delays in loading.

The secret to traveling around a planet with photorealistic satellite imagery is to manually change the basemap setting - from "Map" to "Satellite" - a small adjustment that makes all the difference for a truly immersive visual experience.

How to use Google Earth flight simulator?

Google Earth Flight Simulator Launches on Web

To "board" the simulator, simply open Google Earth at earth.google.com. Then click "Explore the Earth", access the "Tools" menu in the top bar and select "Flight Simulator". There is no need to create an account or install additional browser extensions.

From there, you can control the journey via the keyboard and mouse. Flight speed can be adjusted with the mouse wheel or on-screen controls, while the arrow keys allow you to tilt, climb, descend and steer the aircraft. With one click, you can switch between using a mouse or keyboard, whichever you prefer.

Even if you crash the plane or hit the ground, it's no problem: the simulation simply pauses and allows you to restart safely, without punishments or negative alerts. This makes the experience lighter and more friendly, especially for those who have never had contact with flight simulators.

After visiting your desired destinations, you can exit the simulator by clicking the arrow in the top left corner to return to the normal Google Earth view. During flight, map shortcuts are disabled to prevent them from interfering with the aircraft's controls.

Google Earth Flight Simulator Limits and Potential Epic Destinations

The new Google Earth flight simulator eliminates the need for a plane to go anywhere on the planet - Freepik
In practice, the Google Earth simulator allows you to: "fly" a virtual plane; fly over any place in the world; explore cities, mountains and oceans (there are great destinations to test, such as the Alps, New York and Rio); and see sights in 3D when available. In this version, the user not only observes, but is always in control.

As this is an experimental version, Google itself documents some limitations, such as flying close to ground level in regions below sea level - such as the Badwater Basin in California. On this plain, covered by salt crystals, glow effects or momentary glitches in the terrain may occur, classified as anomalies to be corrected in future versions.

For now, the simulator is only available on Google Earth for the web - it does not work on the mobile apps for Android and iOS or the classic desktop version. In other words, access is limited to those with a modern browser and a stable internet connection.

The good news, for those who have never been in a cabin, is being able to have their first virtual flyover experience, even if simplified. As the simulator was launched globally, there is no country lock, which means we can take off from Brazil to epic scenes around the world with just a few clicks.

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Source: CNN