With Google Maps and Google Earth, there are two very similar map platforms, which, however, differ significantly in terms of usability and the range of functions. While Google Maps relies on concentrated information, Google Earth has its strengths in the realistic representation of the earth – and for some time now this has also included clouds. If you want, you can activate a more or less realistic cloud animation in the app.
The earth is always shown perfectly from above on the satellite images of Google Maps and Google Earth. Usually no planes and no clouds either. This is very nice from below, but not realistic in this country – the holey cloud cover is simply part of it in most regions. Google Earth also knows this and offers two different cloud displays that can be activated very easily.
On the one hand, there are the static clouds and on the other hand the realistic animation. This is based on the data from the last 24 hours and is displayed in a continuous loop at low zoom levels. However, as you get closer, the clouds become more transparent and soon disappear entirely.
How to activate the static clouds:
Opens Google Earth
- Now click on the three-line menu (hamburger menu)
- Select the “Map Style” item
- Now choose the style “Custom
- In the new menu, you activate the item “Clouds” and it will be cloudy
How to enable cloud animation in Google Earth
Opens Google Earth
- Now click on the three-line menu (hamburger menu)
- Now tap on the item “Map style”
- Scroll down a bit and activate the item “Enable cloud animation”
- That’s all, the animation starts immediately
FAQ about the Google Earth clouds
Where does the information about the clouds come from?
- The data comes from a third party and may be subject to irregular but noticeable interruptions.
How long does the cloud animation span?
- The data generally shows cloud movement over the last 24 hours.
How often is the data updated?
- The information is updated once an hour or as soon as the data is published by a third party.
Is cloud animation available in all regions?
- Cloud data is not available near the poles, i.e. at extremely high latitudes. B. gaps or unusually shaped clouds.
How accurate is the information?
- Cloud data is not 100% accurate and should not be used for public safety or daily planning.
What happens if the cloud data is not updated?
- Should the service fail, the most recent cloud data available will be displayed. This is to prevent no clouds from being seen at all. If you notice that the expected update is delayed, you can check the current status in the help forum.
Can I enable the “Clouds” option in the custom map style and the cloud animation at the same time?
- The cloud option in the custom map style is replaced with animated clouds. If you have activated both options, only the animated clouds are visible. You can deactivate them again to display the static clouds again.
At what zoom level do the clouds become visible?
- The static clouds in the custom map style are only visible at low zoom levels and fade out fairly quickly the closer you zoom in. With the new cloud animation, you can zoom in further before the animation disappears.