March 16, 2011 New monitoring system uses Google Earth to
protect endangered archeological sites The platform, dubbed the
Global Heritage Network (GHN - ghn.globalheritagefund.org),
relies on high resolution satellite imagery and detailed maps of
500 key archeological and cultural heritage sites in developing
countries around the world. Threats are reported by people in
the field, including local communities, researchers,
authorities, and volunteers. Umma, Iraq – Massive Looting of
Sumerian Cities 2003-2010. Outlined and cross-hatched area is
Total Area Looted as of 2010 since the Iraq war began in March,
2003. (DigitalGlobe and GHF) "With major threats such as the
armed conflict endangering nearby Preah Vihear Temple on the
contested Thai-Cambodian border, an early warning system for
heritage sites is clearly needed to focus national and world
attention and generate rapid responses to loss and destruction
of global heritage." GHN uses scientific mapping from Esri and
satellite imagery from DigitalGlobe to po