Canadians and people all over the world will be able to visit the country’s parliament by sitting in front of their computer screens, as Google’ Street View is now capturing images of one of Canada’s iconic landmarks to ensure its virtual existence.
Google’s Street View is collecting images of different locations that will be available through Google Maps and those who are interested in visiting them virtually can easily gain access. Google Maps and Street View allow users to explore any location in an enthralling way through 360-degree street-level imagery. A special ‘Trolley’ has been developed to take the Street View technology inside any location. The Trolley contains a panoramic camera, motion sensors, hard drive and an onboard computer to operate the system.
The Trolley has already visited Canada’s House of Commons, the Library of Parliament, the Prime Minister’s office, the Red Chamber of the Senate and other historic locations inside the main parliament building. In a blog post, Aaron Brindle of Google Canada wrote:
“Through the main doors of Parliament, Google Maps users will be able to virtually walk down the Hall of Honour, visit the Memorial Chamber and take the elevator to the top of the Peace Tower. Or, hang a left in Confederation Hall and stroll past portraits of Canada’s former Prime Ministers to the foyer of the House of Commons, where the media scrum MPs and Ministers before going into the House.
“Parliament stands at the heart of our democracy. Through these images, people across the world will be able to see the places where our laws are debated and the chambers where Senators and Members come together to represent every Canadian. Users will have behind-the-scenes access to tour working offices and explore the iconic art, architecture and history of an institution that serves as the backdrop for Canadian politics.”
The project will be completed in the next few months. Meanwhile, Speaker of the House of Commons Andrew Scheer has appreciated the move and said in a press statement, via Global News:
“It’s exciting to provide another way for Canadians to be able to view and experience their Parliament buildings. This is truly an opportunity for Canadians to bring the House of Commons into their homes.”
Photo: OntarioPics