Ever wanted to see the Grand Canyon? No need for a flight, thanks to Google
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tech giant Google has launched a new service offering panoramic views of the most beautiful spots in the Grand Canyon.
Click here to view the gallery of some of the panoramic pictures
Google surprised many five years ago in 2007, with the addition of Streetview to Google Maps. They used cars, motorbikes, and even snowmobiles to capture images from across the world, steadily populating Streetview with interactive panoramic shots.
But now the Google Maps team have gone one further, and entered territory that can't be reached by any vehicles, by using 'Trekkers' - Android-operated backpacks carrying a 15-lens camera system. The Trekkers are designed to be carried on foot through narrow or tight spaces and allow stunning images to be captured where before they were out of reach.
The team managed to capture more than 9,500 panoramas across the Grand Canyon, and launched the new service yesterday, along with a video explaining how it works.
Google Maps' Product Manager Ryan Falor wrote of the project: "These beautiful, interactive images cover more than 75 miles of trails and surrounding roads, making our map of this area even more comprehensive, accurate and easy to use than ever before."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments