When Google came onto the scene no one expected that this little upstart company would someday take over the world. To say they’ve conquered the location data market is an understatement. Google Earth is the undisputed ruler of geographical data display.

This is the single most useful and time consuming free software you’ll ever install on your computer, Mac or PC. Easily create and send points of interest. Look up where you live, your work, fly around your city or neighborhood and get used to the controls. Go visit Area 51 or any other location in the world and do a fly through. The newest version includes the ability to fly through the universe, Mars and even simulate flying an F18 Hornet over the earths surface. Be prepared to spend hours playing.

There is a huge community of Google Earth users with some very interesting work being done to extend its functionality. Check out the Google Earth Hacks website here.

Upgrade to Plus version required to upload waypoints and tracks directly from supported GPS units. Mac and PC versions available. http://earth.google.com/