Logging in to Google Earth Engine

Introduction

Google Earth Engine (GEE) is a powerful cloud-based platform for planetary-scale geospatial analysis. Setting up your access properly is crucial for the cloud-based components of this course. This lab will guide you through the account setup process and teach you essential sharing practices.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lab, you will be able to:

• Create and activate a Google Earth Engine account
• Navigate the Google Earth Engine Code Editor
• Share your work using proper link sharing protocols
• Set up additional required online accounts for the course

1. Google Earth Engine Login & Link Sharing

1.1 Account Setup

Google Earth Engine requires approval for access:

1. Visit earthengine.google.com
2. Click "Get Started"
3. Sign in with your Google account (use your Stanford account if available)
4. Request access by completing the application form
5. Wait for approval (usually 1-2 days for educational use)

1.2 First Login

Once approved:

1. Navigate to code.earthengine.google.com
2. Accept the terms of service
3. Explore the interface: Code Editor, Console, Map, and Asset Manager

1.3 Link Sharing Best Practices

Sharing your Google Earth Engine scripts properly:

• Use the "Get Link" button to create shareable URLs
• Set appropriate permissions (view vs. edit access)
• Test links in an incognito window to verify access
• Include link sharing in all homework submissions

2. Additional Account Setup

2.1 ArcGIS Online

ArcGIS Online provides web mapping and story mapping capabilities:

1. Visit arcgis.com
2. Create a free public account
3. Verify your email address
4. Explore the interface and sample content

2.2 Github.com

GitHub will host your code and documentation:

1. Visit github.com
2. Create a free account with a professional username
3. Apply for the GitHub Student Developer Pack
4. Verify your Stanford email for educational benefits

2.3 Google Colab

Google Colab provides cloud-based Python notebooks:

1. Visit colab.research.google.com
2. Sign in with your Google account
3. Create a test notebook to verify access
4. Connect to runtime and test basic Python commands

2.4 Stanford AFS Web Hosting

Stanford's AFS system provides web hosting for students:

1. Visit accounts.stanford.edu
2. Activate your AFS web space
3. Learn the basics of FTP access
4. Test by uploading a simple HTML file

3. Account Management Best Practices

3.1 Password Security

• Use unique, strong passwords for each service
• Consider using a password manager
• Enable two-factor authentication where available

3.2 Account Linking

Some services work better when linked:

• Connect GitHub to Google Colab for easy repository access
• Link Google accounts across services for seamless integration

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Google Earth Engine Access Denied

• Ensure you've been approved for access
• Try signing out and back in
• Clear browser cache and cookies

ArcGIS Online Limitations

• Free accounts have usage limits
• Educational accounts provide additional resources
• Contact instructor for organizational access if needed

Next Steps

With your accounts properly configured, you're ready to begin installing the desktop software tools that will complement these cloud-based platforms.