Knowing how to determine north can be extremely beneficial when navigating unfamiliar places, particularly when utilizing resources such as Google Maps. This guide will walk you through the steps of identifying north on Google Maps.
Google Maps on Desktop
Follow these steps if you are using Google Maps on your computer:
- Open Google Maps on your web browser.
- Type in your location or destination in the search bar.
- Once your map is open, look for a small compass icon in the right bottom corner of the screen.
- The red point on the compass indicates north. So, if the red point is at the top, you are facing north.
Google Maps on Mobile
The steps for mobile devices are slightly different:
- Open the Google Maps app on your device.
- Enter your location or destination in the search bar at the top of the screen.
- After your map appears, look for a blue cone-shaped arrow. The direction it points to is the direction in which you’re facing.
- To find north, rotate yourself or your device until the top end of the map faces the direction in which the primary direction of your blue arrow points.
Using Satellite View
Another method to identify north is by switching to the satellite view. Here’s how:
- Once you have your map open, click on the ‘Satellite’ option usually available in the left bottom corner, both on mobile and desktop versions.
- This switch will allow you to view the landscape and topography. Most often, shadows will point towards the north, given that the satellite images are taken with the sun in the south.
Knowing how to identify north on Google Maps can greatly improve your navigation skills and overall orientation, no matter where you are. Happy exploring!
