The WorldWide Telescope (WWT) is a computer program to allow people to view outer space. Written by Microsoft, the program turns your computer into a virtual telescope. It does this by using the best imagery available from both ground-based and space-based telescopes.

Recently the program has been updated with over 13,000 detailed images from various NASA spacecraft. This enables users to view Mars using a high-resolution 3-D map of the terrain.

“By providing the Mars dataset to the public on the WorldWide Telescope platform, we are enabling a whole new audience to experience the thrill of space,” said Chris C. Kemp, chief technology officer for information technology at NASA Headquarters in Washington.

via NASA and Microsoft provide Mars 3-D close encounter.