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Loading a GeoTIFF into Google Earth Pro

Loading a GeoTIFF into Google Earth Pro

Step 1: Open Google Earth Pro

Start by launching Google Earth Pro on your computer. You will be greeted with the main interface where you can navigate various options

Step 2: Access the File Menu

Click on the File menu located at the top left corner of the application. This will open a dropdown menu with different options.

Step 3: Select ‘Open’

From the dropdown menu, select Open. This will allow you to browse for your GeoTIFF file.

Open option in File menu

Step 4: Choose Your GeoTIFF File

In the file selection window, ensure that you select GeoTIFF from the file type dropdown. Navigate to the location where your GeoTIFF is stored and select it.

Selecting GeoTIFF file type

Step 5: Confirm Your Selection

After selecting the file, click Open to proceed. This brings you back to the Google Earth interface.

Open file selection window

Step 6: Create a Super Overlay

The best method for importing large GeoTIFFs is to create a Super Overlay. This option helps manage the resolution effectively.

Creating a Super Overlay

Step 7: Adjust the Resolution

Keep the resolution at a high setting to ensure clarity of information displayed on the GeoTIFF. This is crucial for maintaining legibility.

High resolution settings for GeoTIFF

Step 9: Finalize the Import

Once the import is complete, uncheck any unnecessary boxes to finalize your settings. Now you should see the tax map displayed with clear, legible fonts.

Final settings for imported GeoTIFF

Step 10: Align the Map

To ensure accuracy, align the Geotiff by connecting the intersections visible on the satellite photo to those on the Geotiff. Perform this alignment at all four corners of the map.

Aligning the tax map with air photo

FAQ

What is a GeoTIFF?

A GeoTIFF is a raster graphics file format which is a standard for georeferenced raster data. It includes geographic metadata to enable the image to be positioned accurately on the earth’s surface.

Why use a Super Overlay?

A Super Overlay allows large images to be displayed in Google Earth without overwhelming the system. It splits the image into tiles based on the zoom level, ensuring smooth performance.

What if my GeoTIFF does not display correctly?

If your GeoTIFF does not appear correctly, check if it is properly georeferenced and in a compatible format. You may need to use GIS software to verify or adjust its settings.

Does my GeoTiff need to be 3 bands ( RGB)?

Yes, 3-band RGB images are the only type of GeoTiff that Google Earth can import & display

About the Author
I'm Daniel O'Donohue, the voice and creator behind The MapScaping Podcast ( A podcast for the geospatial community ). With a professional background as a geospatial specialist, I've spent years harnessing the power of spatial to unravel the complexities of our world, one layer at a time.