Google Maps has had a colossal, 700 trillion-pixel makeover, introducing cloud-less maps and high-resolution imagery for more than 1 billion monthly users.

The new maps make use of NASA's Landsat 8 satellite launched in 2013, which captures twice as many images every day than the previous satellite used.

The cloud-less imagery allows users to see a lot more areas and islands around the world without weather formations obscuring the view.

One such island that had been hidden by the veil of cloud was Christmas Island, where the Australian government detains asylum seekers. In the updated Google Maps the detention camp is clear to see as the bare soil sticks out among the tropical rainforest.