Importing Google Maps data for use in Microsoft Flight Simulator (MSFS) with the Earth2MSFS tool is another method for creating custom scenery. Earth2MSFS simplifies the process by automating many of the steps involved in capturing, converting, and preparing the data for use in MSFS. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
1. Set Up the Required Tools
a. Install Earth2MSFS:
Download and install Earth2MSFS. This tool is specifically designed to convert Google Maps 3D data into a format that can be used directly in MSFS.
Ensure that you have the necessary dependencies installed (e.g., Python, Blender).
1- Blender: 2- Optimization Tools: 3- Google Earth Decoder Tool:
4- MSFSToolkit 40.0: 5- Google Earth Decoder update:
6- latest Compressonator here:
b. Install Blender:
If you don’t already have it, install Blender for any additional cleanup or optimization you might want to do.
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2. Process the Captured Data with Earth2MSFS
a. Set Up the Project:
Earth2MSFS allows you to set the project folder, name, and other settings.
Define the location of the scenery in the world using latitude and longitude coordinates.
c. Process the Data:
The tool will automatically process the 3D data, including optimizing textures and generating the necessary files for MSFS.
Depending on the size of the area and the level of detail, this process might take some time.
4. Optimize the Data (Optional, but Recommended)
a. Use Blender for Optimization:
After Earth2MSFS processes the data, you can further optimize it in Blender.
You might want to reduce the polygon count, clean up any unnecessary geometry, or adjust the textures.
Use tools like Decimate Modifier in Blender to reduce the complexity of the model.
b. Apply Thalixte’s Optimization Tool:
If you have Thalixte’s optimization tool, you can run it on the model to further reduce the file size and improve performance in MSFS.
5. Export and Prepare the Scenery for MSFS
a. Export the Optimized Model:
Export the model from Blender in .gltf format, or any other format that MSFS supports.
Ensure that textures are correctly mapped and compatible with MSFS.
b. Integrate into MSFS:
Use the MSFS SDK to create a new scenery package.
Import the exported files into your scenery project.
Set up the scenery’s position, height, and other parameters in the simulator.
6. Test and Finalize
a. Test the Scenery in MSFS:
Load your scenery in MSFS and fly over the area to check how it looks.
Look for issues like misplaced objects, texture problems, or performance drops.
b. Make Final Adjustments:
Return to Blender or Earth2MSFS for any adjustments.
Repeat the export and import process until the scenery is satisfactory.
c. Package and Share:
Once the scenery is ready, package it for distribution if desired.
You can share your custom scenery with the MSFS community or keep it for personal use.
Tips: Quality vs. Performance: The level of detail you choose will impact performance, so balance quality with the simulator’s capabilities.
Backup Your Work: Always save copies of your work at different stages.
Follow MSFS Community Guidelines: If you plan to share your work, ensure you follow any community guidelines or legal restrictions related to using Google Maps data.
By using Earth2MSFS, the process of importing and optimizing Google Maps data for MSFS becomes much more streamlined, allowing you to focus on fine-tuning the scenery and achieving the best possible results in the simulator.
