How to Import a Map File Into Google Earth

The first thing you see when you open Google Earth is the planet Earth floating peacefully in space. Grab the Earth with your mouse and move your mouse left or right to spin the Earth. When it stops, zoom in and plummet to ground level to explore the cities and terrain below. If you find that Google Earth does not contain all the map data you would like, consider importing your own maps. Google Earth comes with a "data import" feature that lets you upload custom geographic data into the software.

Instructions

1. Save the map data you wish to upload into Google Earth onto your computer's desktop. This will make finding the file easy when it comes time to upload it.

2. Open your "Program Files" folder, find Google Earth and launch the Google Earth Program. As an alternative, double-click on the "Google Earth" shortcut if one is located on your desktop.

3. Click on the "File" menu in Google Earth and choose the "Import" option.

4. Select the "Desktop" option to show the files available to be uploaded from your desktop.

5. Click on the map data you saved in Step 1. Google Earth will prompt you to select whether or not you wish to apply a style template. Style templates allow you to display different fields such as names and colors for data or icons. After the prompt, Google Earth will upload your map file.

References

• earth.google: Google Earth
• earth.google: Importing Your Own Data Into Google Earth
• earth.google: Using Style Templates