Satellite Overlay

How to Use the Satellite Overlay in the Studio

The Satellite Overlay in Laser Map Maker Studio provides a real-world satellite image to help you visualize and align your map with actual geography. This feature is especially useful when trying to pinpoint specific locations, locate landmarks, or adjust the map's details after using the search function. The satellite view can be adjusted for better clarity and toggled on and off based on your needs. It doesn't affect the layers or the final exported map, making it a convenient tool for reference during the design process.

This guide will show you how to use and adjust the Satellite Overlay for easier map creation.

Accessing the Satellite Overlay

The Satellite Overlay feature can be easily toggled and adjusted through the map workspace. Here’s how to get started:

1. Locate the Satellite Overlay Controls

• In the map workspace, find the Satellite Overlay toggle button, typically located in the top-right corner of the interface.

2. Toggle e the Satellite Overlay

• Click the Satellite Overlay button to toggle the satellite image. This will display a real-world view of your map’s area, which you can use to identify landmarks, roads, and terrain.

3. Adjust the Overlay Opacity

• After enabling the satellite view, you can adjust the opacity (visibility) of the overlay from 0% (fully transparent) to 100% (fully opaque). Use the slider to control how much of the satellite image you want to see, allowing you to layer it on top of your map without overwhelming your design.

• For example, if you want the satellite view to be more subtle, set the opacity to 50%, allowing you to see both the map and the satellite image at the same time.

Tip: Adjusting the opacity is especially helpful if you want to see how the satellite image aligns with your map's custom features or markers without losing focus on the map itself.

What the Satellite Overlay Does

The Satellite Overlay helps improve your map’s accuracy and ease of use in the following ways:

• Landmark Identification: The satellite view provides a clearer image of the terrain and notable landmarks, making it easier to locate and adjust specific spots on your map.
• Improved Orientation: The satellite image offers a real-world perspective, helping you orient your map more accurately to the environment you're mapping.
• Enhanced Search Functionality: After using the search function to locate a spot, the satellite overlay allows you to quickly verify that you've found the correct location based on recognizable landmarks or geographical features.

Using the Satellite Overlay with Other Map Features

While the satellite image offers valuable reference, it is important to remember that it does not get exported with your map. The overlay is purely for visual guidance in the studio and does not affect the final layers or elements of your exported map.

Important: The satellite overlay will not appear in your exported file, so you don’t need to worry about it cluttering your final design. It’s simply for your convenience while working in the studio.

Best Practices for Using the Satellite Overlay

1. Use the Satellite Overlay for Precision: After searching for a location or zooming in on a specific area, toggle the satellite overlay to quickly check if your markers or map features align with real-world landmarks.

2. Adjust Opacity to Your Preference: If you want a more subtle satellite view, adjust the opacity to a lower value (e.g., 30% or 50%) so that the overlay doesn’t overpower your map. For a clearer reference, set the opacity to 100%.

3. Toggle On/Off for Clarity: Use the toggle to switch between the satellite overlay and your primary map style. When working with multiple layers or details, it might be helpful to turn off the satellite view to reduce visual clutter.

4. Combine with Zoom and Pan: The satellite overlay works well when you’re panning and zooming to locate specific spots on the map. As you adjust the map's position, the overlay will update, helping you stay oriented.

Conclusion

The Satellite Overlay in Laser Map Maker Studio is a simple yet powerful tool that provides a real-world reference to help you align and refine your map. With adjustable opacity and the ability to toggle the overlay on and off, you can easily visualize landmarks, ensure the accuracy of your map features, and enhance the overall design process.

Since the overlay doesn’t get exported with your map, you can use it freely for guidance without worrying about it affecting your final output. Whether you're zooming in on a specific location, checking the alignment of elements, or identifying landmarks, the satellite overlay helps you create precise and accurate maps with ease.

Updated on: 08/01/2025