General

What is Google Earth Engine?

Google Earth Engine brings together petabytes of Earth observation data — trillions of scientific measurements dating back over 40 years — along with tools for accessing and analyzing these data using Google's cloud infrastructure. Earth Engine is available online for scientists, independent researchers, and nations who want to mine this massive warehouse of data to detect changes, map trends and quantify differences on the Earth's surface. Applications include: detecting deforestation, classifying land cover, estimating forest biomass and carbon, measuring water availability, and calculating the impacts of natural disasters.

What is Google Earth Outreach?

Google Earth Outreach is a program that helps provide nonprofits and public benefit organizations with the knowledge and resources they need to visualize their cause and tell their story in Google's mapping tools. The online program consists of an overview of mapping tools, success stories from nonprofits using Google mapping tools, tutorials, information about our grants program, as well as other resources for nonprofits. This short video is a great introduction to the program.

When is the Earth Engine User Summit 2017?

The summit will be held on June 12 - 14, 2017 and will run from roughly 8am to 6pm on each day (except Wednesday, when it will end at 4pm).

Which costs are covered as part of the Earth Engine User Summit, and what are participants expected to pay on their own?

The training and materials are provided free to participants, as well as the meals of breakfast and lunch. The participants cover the cost of any travel to and during the workshop, such as airfare, hotel accommodations, etc. 

What can I expect at a Google Earth Engine / Google Earth Outreach workshop?

The workshop will teach highly practical tools which organizations can use to collect, host, analyze, visualize, and publish map data using the power of the cloud. The workshop also provides a chance for professionals to network, discuss common issues and challenges, and learn how to train others within their organization and the greater community. See here and here for recent past workshops.

What will be covered?

We plan to cover a variety of Google mapping technologies, with an emphasis on Google Earth Engine.  See the agenda page for more details.

Can anyone attend the Earth Engine User Summit? How much does it cost?

This hands-on workshop is limited to 200 participants. Due to limited space, we may not be able to accept every workshop applicant. Attendance is free, following acceptance into the workshop through Google’s application process.

In what languages will the training be given?

Regretfully, we can only offer the training in English at this time.

I'm not able to attend this workshop. Will there be future opportunities?

For information on future workshops and opportunities, subscribe to the Earth Engine Announcements list.

Application Process

What are the important dates I should remember as an applicant?

March 21, 2017: Application Deadline.

April 14, 2017: All applicants will be notified of their application status via email, on or before this date.

What are the requirements for workshop participants? What qualities or skills will be given preference during the application review by Google?

This workshop is intended for mapping and remote sensing specialists. Ideal participants will meet one or more of the following requirements:

• Are currently working on geospatial projects (of their own or with students/collaborators), or have datasets they want to map and analyze.
• Have used Earth Engine in the past and want to share your knowledge and learn more.
• Have intermediate-to-advanced technical experience in one or more of the following areas:
• Google Earth, Google Maps, Google Earth Engine
• GIS or remote sensing/image analysis experience
• Web/multimedia development
• Programming for Google Geo APIs
• Possess training experience and intend to train others within their institution.

How many applicants will be accepted?

200 applicants will be accepted to participate in the workshop.

Can more than one individual from the same organization apply?

Yes, because of limited space we typically limit participation to 2 people per institution and will make selections based on the qualities or skills listed above.

Can I apply to attend if I've attended a Google mapping workshop in the past?

Yes, absolutely - Google's technology is constantly improving, and if you're actively using these tools in your coursework or research, we want you to know about the latest developments! However, you will be reviewed along with all of this year's applicants, and are not necessarily guaranteed a spot in the workshop.

Travel and Logistics

Where is the workshop being held? How do I get there?

The workshop will be held at Google Headquarters in Mountain View, California. See our Location page for more info on the location.

Where can I park?

Parking info can be found on the Location page.

What hotel is recommended for out-of-town participants?

Recommendations for nearby hotels can be found on the Accommodations page.

Will any meals be provided to participants?

Breakfast and lunch on all 3 days will be provided to participants free of charge; dinner will be provided at least one day. Vegetarian cuisine will be available, but if you require gluten-free or other specific needs, let us know before the workshop or plan to bring supplemental snacks.

Contact Us

If you have a question about the workshop not answered in this FAQ, please email earthenginesummit@google.com.