Google Earth image licenses

November 20, 2006 1:29 PM

What are the chances of me being able to use some Google Earth images in a self-published military history book? We're talking small peanuts black & white images, non high-res, of some military locations in Asia. I expect no more than 100-200 book copies in circulation.

I'm not averse to just doing it and just abiding by a cease & desist letter if it bothers them enough; after all I will only be earning chump change from this. But of course I'd like to explore all avenues for doing it the right way. Does anyone know if they have fair licensing deals for small potatoes like me? Or is this the kind of thing where they demand thousands of dollars?

Also most of the images I'd like to use are in NASA Whirlwind. Are those images public domain?

I'm just trying to weigh my options here before contacting the right people and thought you all might have some wisdom.

posted by calhound to Computers & Internet (5 answers total)

Google owns the maps. You will have to contact their business manager for permissions. If you can show that you have tried to seek permission, then you might get away with a "Image: Google Maps, permission sought." But have you looked at substituting Google maps with sources from royalty free sources? There are many operators who do royalty free satellite images, just googling them may bring up a publisher with what you're looking for. Publishing - even self-publishing - a book with images where you don't have permission sets you up for a lawsuit really fast.
posted by parmanparman at 1:52 PM on November 20, 2006

You probably need to ask for permission first.
However, you can write a clear explanation like you have here and hope they don't request money to use the images. Are you planning on using the Google Earth logo or words "Google Earth" or just the images?
posted by mattbucher at 1:52 PM on November 20, 2006 [1 favorite]

Google doesn't necessarily own the maps. For instance, if I look at a satellite image of parts of Maine, the copyright changes to "Imagery ©2006 Maine Office of GIS, Terrametrics"...so it's possible you might find another copyright holder's information right there on the map.
posted by bcwinters at 2:21 PM on November 20, 2006

NASA images are license free but require a byline credit.
posted by JJ86 at 2:24 PM on November 20, 2006 [1 favorite]

Yeah Google licences most of it's aerial / satellite imagery off third parties. Who generally charge large amounts for their images, but it depends on the exact location you're looking at. As bcwinters suggests, you might have to go to original sources and ask them for permission, because Google probably doesn't have the right to give it to you.
posted by Jimbob at 2:25 PM on November 20, 2006