barnabu

Google Earth hack to display Mars’ two satellites, Phobos and Deimos. Same idea as my ‘Google Saturn’ file where I create a supersized model and encase the GE globe. I’ve also added some options to view the entire Martian system, including Mars.

The models are based on shape files created by Phil J Stooke, which I parsed over to Collada format and textured with a couple of real cylindrical maps. Considering how small theses bodies are - 20km and 5km in diameter -Nasa’s imagery is surprisingly detailed. Phobos, in particular, showing a few battle scars!

The file includes Placemarks plus basic data for all named geological features, taken from the USGS website. Many of these names are taken from the book Gulliver’s Travels. In which the author, Jonathan Swift ‘predicts’ Mars has two moons, 150 years before they were actually discovered.

Mars, Phobos and Deimos
1MB

• Use the options under ‘Places’ to switch between the 3D models of Phobos, Deimos and 3 differently scaled versions of the Martian system.
• It can be tricky to find the two moons in the exact scale version (the 3rd option). I suggest double-clicking on the ‘Martian System (to scale)‘ option to change the Google Earth camera position, then zoom in gradually

Related:
- Google Saturn
- Jupiter Timelapse Animation

Related posts:

1. Other Planets
2. Solar System in Google Earth
3. The Many Moons of Google Earth
4. Google Saturn?
5. Google Sky Orrery x3