Google goes to space with it’s own satellite imagery company called GeoEye which takes professional satellite images of the earth.  Google can now offer clear shots of even only 1 meter away for professional use using satellite imagery.

So what’s the difference between Google Maps and GeoEye?
GeoEye isn’t just a rudimentary upgrade to satellite photography of typical Google Maps-like order. It’s designers regard it as having “the highest resolution of any commercial imaging system,” with the capability to show detail within one square foot or so.

The first satellite was successfully launched into space yesterday September 6th, with Google eager to see the fruits of GeoEye’s labor.