3D Weather Globe & Atlas
© 2005 Software MacKiev
Update 2008: Version 2 features include: weather on your desktop with NASA maps and real-time satellite data; an astronaut's-eye-view of the Earth; mountains, rivers, lakes, and deserts; real-time weather and cloud cover; 7-day forecast including wind and humidity; day/night line changing with the seasons; accurate latitude/longitude markings; all countries in the same time zone; hurricanes, tropical storms, rain patterns; famous routes (eg. Magellan's voyage); and distances between any of 40,000+ cities. Prices are now $60 for a single user, and $80 for a Family Pack (up to five computers per household). If you are teaching science or geography, and can take a little time to learn how this program works, the payoff is “out of this world” big. The software uses NASA satellite maps and realtime forecasts so that you can see current cloud cover, temperature, and more, all across the globe. You can choose map or globe view (the latter is particularly stunning), and can toggle back and forth between night and day. Other options allow you to find cities, plot travel routes, view time zones and exact latitude/longitude markings. Weather tools allow you to see up to seven-day forecasts. Our two favorite features are both “cool” and educational. First, we liked how when you pass your cursor over any map portion, the countries are identified and their boundaries shown. Second, we loved the historic route tracking feature, where you can see the stops of famous journeys like Magellan’s Voyage and Amelia Earhart’s famous flight. As with most MacKiev products, the software is elegantly designed and features beautiful visuals. The Bottom Line: It does take a bit of time to figure out all the program’s functions, but the effort is well worth it.
$39.99, Mac OSX
Teaches: geography, science, weather