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.
Highlights
This paper will summarize recent achievements made in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science using three-dimensional (3D) technology to help reach beyond expert audiences, and discuss best practices that can be shared with other sciences such as geophysics
In the past several years, research has shown that 3D printed scientific data from astrophysics and geophysics with tactile features can help communicate with blind or visually impaired (BVI) participants across a spectrum of abilities (Bonne et al, 2018) as well as with sighted people (European Southern Observatory, 2019), and to promote inclusivity more broadly (Christian et al, 2015; Arcand et al, 2019)
Preliminary astrophysical virtual reality (VR) applications of simulated worlds through recent astronomical VR experiences as individual applications (e.g., Russell et al, 2017; Arcand et al, 2018; Ferrand and Warren, 2018; Chandra X-ray Observatory, 2020b), include artistically illustrated worlds, simulated data mapped to astronomical observations, and three-dimensional models derived from scientific observations
Summary
This paper will summarize recent achievements made in astronomy, astrophysics, and space science using three-dimensional (3D) technology to help reach beyond expert audiences, and discuss best practices that can be shared with other sciences such as geophysics. In the past several years, research has shown that 3D printed scientific data from astrophysics and geophysics with tactile features can help communicate with BVI participants across a spectrum of abilities (Bonne et al, 2018) as well as with sighted people (European Southern Observatory, 2019), and to promote inclusivity more broadly (Christian et al, 2015; Arcand et al, 2019). Multidimensional renderings of astronomical and geological data in accessible formats can simplify the discovery of previously hidden or overlooked structures in objects and, through the presence of interactive features, can enable close-up views of data via a personalized perspective (Madura, 2017) This variety of technologies that have proven useful for accessible public engagement has helped to clarify the context of current observational science data (Madura et al, 2015; Arcand et al, 2017). Customizable materials, derived from openly accessible materials, can potentially improve experiences for all learners, for those with special access requirements (Zhang et al, 2020)
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