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The update adds a host of new features, including podcasts on current cosmological events such as the appearance of comets and asteroids; historical maps dating back to 1792 and images from various observatories in the x-ray, infrared and ultraviolet spectrums.

The flow of information now runs both ways, too, as amateur astronomers can upload their own content which will become accessible to users in optional layers.

Google has also introduced an Application

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Programming Interface which will allow developers to creates "mashups" from Sky imagery, just as they can in Google maps.

When Sky in Google Earth was launched in August last year, Professor Francisco Diego from the astronomy department of University College London told PC Pro that he hoped the software could become an "astronomical YouTube", consolidating amatuer efforts worldwide.

To experiment with the new Sky functionality, download the latest version of the software from the Google Earth website.

PC Pro is reporting direct from CES 2008 in Las Vegas all this week, bringing you interviews, breaking news and all the new technology you could hope for. You can find the latest coverage at our CES homepage.