Studying Earth's ancient geography, known as paleogeography, often involves complex data and specialized tools, making it challenging to collaborate, reproduce results, and share findings easily. To overcome these issues, the International Association for Paleogeography (IAP) has developed an accessible online platform called TimeMachine. This platform helps scientists easily reconstruct ancient Earth maps directly from a web browser, simplifying the integration of diverse data and software tools into a single user-friendly environment.

TimeMachine combines multiple models of Earth's shifting continents, detailed historical maps, and powerful search tools, enabling quick visualizations of Earth's history. By using advanced graphics technology, TimeMachine significantly speeds up calculations, allowing researchers to rapidly explore ancient conditions, such as past climates and ecosystems. Interactive charts help users visualize how specific locations have changed over millions of years, enhancing our understanding of Earth's deep past.

Additionally, cloud-based project management improves data sharing and ensures findings can be reproduced by other researchers. Using a Cretaceous-period case study, we demonstrate that TimeMachine greatly improves research efficiency, encourages collaboration across disciplines, and makes paleogeographic knowledge widely accessible to scientists and the public alike.