Japan and NASA release second version of the most detailed topographic map of Earth
NASA and Japan have launched the new version of the most comprehensive topographic map in the world.
The map, called ASTER GDEM 2, which is based on images captured aboard the Aster/Terra spacecraft, is free, available online, and has higher spatial accuracy than the previous version released in 2009. Additionally, the new map features more realistic graphics.
According to Mike Abrams, a NASA team member, the map provides users with the highest-resolution global topographic information available today. An instrument on Terra called Aster—short for Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer—captured all the images for the new version.
The technology was entirely developed by Japan, according to Mashable. Both Aster and the map are results of a partnership between NASA and Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Data from Aster covers 99% of the Earth's surface, from 83°S to 83°N latitude. (Source: with information from TechTudo, NASA, G1)
To download the data, access the following link:
https://search.earthdata.nasa.gov/search/
(Data viewer to facilitate download)
April 2016: