Biomedical researchers take a virtual look at the spread of the avian flu virus through Google Earth. 

With Keyhole Markup Language on Google Earth scientists were able to trace the course of the disease over the past decade.

The Google Earth project animates the spread of avian flu virus. In addition the data contains information on all known strains of the evolving flu virus plus all its host organisms. So far avian flu has not proven highly contagious among humans with fewer than 300 known cases worldwide. However, medical research is watching the virus's spread and evolution.

To view the virus virtually, you will need to download Google Earth and then copy this link into your browser.

[via meshly]

In fear of extremist groups, the Indian government is requesting that Google reduce the detail of several sensitive sites, such as military bases and government buildings, viewable in Google Earth.  At this time, agreements have not been made, but Google is "committed to continue the dialogue."

British army intelligence have proof to believe that terrorists are using the internet tool to pinpoint attacks on British troops in Iraq.  So I would say the Indian government is justified in their fears.  With the details of the world just a click away -- and accessible to everyone -- it's scary to think who might be lurking. 

Google Earth is a free downloadable program where users can access stitched satellite photographs of the Earth.  Search addresses, get driving directions, and view 3D terrain and buildings. 

Anders over at The Random Show created a really interesting video using Google Earth combined with spatial information for video bloggers around the world.

What I love about videoblogging (or video in general as a medium) is that if I get an idea, I can visualize it in almost no time at all because the tools available are so easy to work with, and I get some result immediately.

This video is a good example of how quickly we're approaching the point where the same can be said for mapping and GIS tools.

The data was supplied by the folks over at vlogmap.org who recently released a vlogger dataset for google earth.

Anyone want to post a list of their favorite video blogs?

[via makezine]