While searching for a way to incorporate an interactive globe into xploration.org, I came across the Google Earth API which ports many of the features found in the desktop gEarth app to the web via browser plug-in. Now, instead of being limited to 2-D gMaps, developers can embed 3-D digital globes into websites.
One of the more intriguing examples provided is the Google Earth Plug-in Driving Simulator. Enter a To and From into the Directions box, hit Go!, and then click Start to watch a virtual Smart car drive around the virtual globe.
For a less sophisticated illustration, see the gEarth plug-in in action @ e.xploration.org.
