British Geological Survey Online Maps Really Rock!
Just in case Google Maps Street View wasn't enough, UK residents can now use online maps to see what's beneath their feet.
The British Geological Survey (BGS) have put the UK's entire geological footprint online as part of the OpenGeoscience service. This means anyone can see what rock formations lie under their home by using Google Maps.
The information has been made available for non-commercial use and it's intended as a tool for education and general interest. It's accompanied by photographic archives and a range of educational and professional tools.
The BGS claim the UK is the first nation in the world to bare its geological soul in this way. They admit that they're not sure what people will do with the information but they're hoping users will find creative and innovative uses for the data.
The move raises new questions in the debate over privacy of information in the communication age. Is it right that anyone can see what it is that your house is built on? And does it really matter if they do?
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