Actually there exists (has existed for some years even) alternatives to Google Earth that also can be used by Mac and Linux users. Try the Virtual Globe at: http://globe.sintef.no/ (Java required).
As it doesn't have the money for the hi-detail data Google can buy, it only uses the data NASA aand USGS gives avay for free. And in many cases 15m horizontal resolution Landsat images and 100m SRTM elevations are sufficient.
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Actually there exists (has existed for some years even) alternatives to Google Earth that also can be used by Mac and Linux users. Try the Virtual Globe at: http://globe.sintef.no/ (Java required). As it doesn't have the money for the hi-detail data Google can buy, it only uses the data NASA aand USGS gives avay for free. And in many cases 15m horizontal resolution Landsat images and 100m SRTM elevations are sufficient.