I came across this incredible real-time map that uses computer illustrations to show the pattern of sunlight and darkness across the earth. The clouds are updated every 3 hours using current satellite imagery. From this site, you can create a gadget to add this map to your own blog, webpage or personal google page. As I looked further, I also discovered OSXPlanet. Gabriel Otte (a high school senior!), designed this program to use the map as a screensaver with Mac's OSX (not intel versions yet).
Since my students keep track of the sunrise/sunset and hours of daylight, I thought it would be fun for them to watch as this map changes. You can add cities and enable current cloud, storm, volcano and earthquake data. OSXPlanet also offers an option of viewing the moon and planets. The maps and images are stunning!
