3D AR Instagram Experiences Featuring Space Objects Unveiled by the Smithsonian
The Smithsonian’s Cosmic Journey Begins with the Release of 3D-Rendered Data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory
Using Chandra X-ray Observatory and other telescope data, the Smithsonian has built 3D models of astronomical objects and used them to create interactive Instagram experiences. With AR, people may look at nebulae, exploding stars, and other space phenomena via their phones’ cameras while simultaneously listening to data sonifications, which are audio representations of the data. Explanatory text will be provided with the photographs to help people understand what they are looking at. Instagram and the Smithsonian website both provide the effects for free.
The world’s most powerful X-ray telescope is the Chandra X-ray Observatory. It finds nebulae, supernovae, black holes, and other cosmic phenomena while studying star and galaxy life cycles.
Kimberly Arcand, a scientist at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory and a member of the Centre for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian, was thrilled by the mission’s capacity to deliver cosmic data closer to Earth in this way. Through the use of augmented reality and mobile devices, it practically puts Chandra’s incredible findings within reach.
Some of these new 3D models of astronomical objects have also made it into the Smithsonian’s collection of 3D digital artefacts, expanding the reach of the observatory’s data beyond Instagram and into people’s living rooms and lecture halls. Data sonification also builds upon an accessibility initiative spearheaded by the Chandra group since 2020.
Smithsonian scientists used NASA data and educational resources from the communications and public engagement teams to create these impacts, which, according to Under Secretary for Science and Research Ellen Stofan, demonstrate the museum’s capacity to inspire. The authors state that these data provide a unique opportunity for individuals of all ages to gain knowledge about the cosmos beyond what can be learned from current astronomical observations.
Tycho Supernova Remnant, Vela Pulsar, Helix Nebula, Cat’s Eye Nebula, and the Chandra spacecraft are among items included in the new Chandra Instagram filter collection. Collaborating with Sal Orlando, an astronomer from Italy’s National Institute for Astrophysics in Palermo, they created three-dimensional models of the first three objects. Data on the Cat’s Eye Nebula was provided by student physics researcher Ryan Clairmont of Stanford University. The Chandra Instagram filters were developed by Arcand in collaboration with Brown University’s Tom Sgouros and his team, which also included research assistant Alexander Dupuis and student Healey Koch.
In 1999, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory took over operation of NASA’s Chandra X-ray telescope, which has been celebrating its 25th anniversary with the publication of these new effects. In addition, they mark the beginning of the Smithsonian’s Cosmic Journey, an exciting series of artistic, cultural, and scientific events, partnerships, and material created to pique the interest of people from all walks of life who have a growing passion for space and encourage them to learn more. People from all walks of life may discover their place in the universe via this groundbreaking nationwide initiative that brings together science, education, visual art, music, history, and culture.
