Unfortunately, Google Earth (or Google Maps) itself does not provide a straightforward way to determine the exact resolution of the satellite imagery you are viewing. Here are a couple of techniques you can try to get an estimate:
Check the Copyright Information
Zoom in on the area you're interested in on Google Earth.
Look at the bottom middle of the window. You'll see copyright information like "Image (C) YYYY XXXXX".
"YYYY" represents the year the image was captured (not exactly??), and "XXXXX" is usually the company that provided the imagery.
When searching online for the company name (XXXXX), you may find information about the resolution of the base imagery they supply to Google Earth. However, keep in mind that this method may not always be accurate as Google Earth uses imagery from different providers (satellites and aerials), and the resolution can vary depending on the location and terms of the agreement between Google and the providers.
Estimate resolution based on image detail
This method is not very precise, but it can provide a rough idea.
Zoom in on the image until you can see features like cars or buildings.
If you can easily identify individual cars and distinguish details such as lane markings on roads, the resolution is likely high, possibly 1 meter or better.
If vehicles appear blurred or as unrecognizable shapes, the resolution is likely lower (several meters per pixel).
Distinguishing high-resolution imagery (aerial imagery or satellite imagery)
Distinguishing between aerial imagery (15 cm) and satellite imagery (30 cm) can be achieved by observing the level of details and understanding the inherent distinctions between the two types of imagery. Here's how:
Level of Detail
15 cm Aerial Imagery: This offers incredibly high resolution. You should be able to see fine details like individual roof shingles on buildings, road lane markings, and even people walking on sidewalks. Text on signs might be partially readable.
30 cm Satellite Imagery: While still high resolution, details are less sharp compared to 15 cm imagery. Individual cars on roads are visible, but lane markings may be blurry, and text on signs will likely be illegible.
Viewing Geometry
Aerial Imagery: This is usually captured from a nearly vertical perspective, reducing distortion and providing a more accurate depiction of object shapes.
Satellite Imagery: Satellites orbit the Earth at a significant distance, resulting in an oblique viewing angle. This can cause slight geometric distortions, especially at the edges of the image. Buildings on the edges might appear to be leaning slightly.
Shadows
Aerial Imagery: Aerial photos are usually taken at specific times of the day to minimize shadows. However, some shadows may still be present depending on the time and sun angle.
Satellite Imagery: Due to the viewing angle, shadows cast by objects such as buildings appear longer and more prominent in satellite imagery.
By using a combination of these methods, you can get a better sense of the resolution of the satellite imagery you're viewing on Google Earth or find alternative sources for high-resolution imagery if needed
Contact Experts (like GeoWGS84 Corp)
Images are inherently part of our genetic makeup. We can instantly gauge the resolution of an image simply by glancing at it. As the resolution continues to enhance in numerous areas, if there's a particular location you're curious about, share the coordinates with us and we'll do our best to assist you in providing you with details of available updated images.
For more information about high-resolution satellite imagery, aerial imagery, or drone imagery, please feel free to reach us at:
Email: info@geowgs84.com
USA (HQ): (720) 702–4849
India: 98260-76466 - Pradeep Shrivastava
Canada: (519) 590 9999
Mexico: 55 5941 3755
UK & Spain: +44 12358 56710
Happy satellite browsing! 🛰️🌍