Salvatore Orlando, Ignazio Pillitteri, Fabrizio Bocchino, Laura Daricello, and Laura Leonardi
In the first half of 2019, we launched 3DMAP-VR1 (three-dimensional Modeling of Astrophysical Phenomena in Virtual Reality), a project aimed at visualizing 3D MHD models of astrophysical simulations, using VR sets of equipment. The models account for all the relevant physical processes in astrophysical phenomena: gravity, magnetic-field-oriented thermal conduction, energy losses due to radiation, gas viscosity, deviations from proton–electron temperature equilibration, deviations from the ionization equilibrium, cosmic rays acceleration, etc. (e.g., Orlando et al. 2011, 2015, 2016, 2017).
[This is part of the complete research note by Orlando et al.; for the full note see the link below.]
The Crab Nebula supernova remnant in X-rays (Credits – 2D Image (A): NASA/CXC/SAO; 3D Print (B): NASA/CXC/SAO/A. Jubett, K. Arcand et al.)
Abstract Three-dimensional (3D) visualization has opened up a universe of possible scientific data representations. 3D printing has the potential to make seemingly abstract and esoteric data sets accessible, particularly through the lens of translating data into forms that can be explored in the tactile modality for people who are blind or visually impaired. This article will briefly review 3D modeling in astrophysics, astronomy, and planetary science, before discussing 3D printed astrophysical and planetary geophysical data sets and their current and potential applications with non-expert audiences. The article will also explore the prospective pipeline and benefits of other 3D data outputs in accessible scientific research and communications, including extended reality and data sonification.
Keywords: 3D printing, 3D visualization, virtual reality, astrophysics, geophysics, science communication, inclusivity
