Exactly forty years ago, Neil Armstrong took the first step on the Moon. To celebrate that achievement, Google announced a new plug-in for Google Earth version 5.0 that will allow users to explore the Moon. The plug-in has been unveiled today at Washington DC’s Newseum and uses 3D technology to provide a thrilling experience to its users. “Forty years ago, two human beings walked on the Moon. Starting today, with Moon in Google Earth, it’s now possible for anyone to follow in their footsteps, ” – Michael Weiss-Malik, product manager.

The plug-in is a 3D atlas of the moon. It features a clickable map filled with short stories, details of all man-made objects, high quality photography, and video from the Apollo missions. Users can also find in-depth information about the Moon’s terrain. However, all images are taken from orbit so most of the objects are very small and difficult to see.

“This tool will make it easier for millions of people to learn about space, our moon and some of the most significant and dazzling discoveries humanity has accomplished,” –Anousheh Ansari, first female private space explorer. Any Google Earth 5.0 user can explore the surface of the Moon in just a few minutes. One small step for Google, one giant leap for Google Earth users!

You can see an online version here: http://www.google.com/moon/