Skip to main content
COMMUNITY:
Project Descriptions

Windows on Earth

September 1, 2005 - February 28, 2011 | Media and Technology, Exhibitions
TERC will develop Earth Window, a visualization system for generating photo-realistic Earth images and fly-overs that offer a new method for earth science visualization designed for non-scientific audiences. Based on front-end research to determine a baseline of visitor knowledge and misconceptions, the project team will create the Earth Window Research Lab using the GeoFusion visualization engine and WorldSat "digital earth" remote sensing database. This prototype will undergo formative evaluation with visitors to explore a variety of interfaces, navigation systems, levels of interactivity and presentation formats, along with researching the roles of metaphor, user control, false color, authenticity and changes over time to determine how best to employ this technology in ways that maximize visitor learning. BROADER IMPACTS: Based on the outcomes of the formative research, TERC will refine the visualization technology and integrate it into different types of existing exhibits at four museums: Museum of Science (MA); Montshire Museum (VT); National Air and Space Museum (DC); St. Louis Science Center (MO). "Windows on Earth" will enable some 1.8 million people to benefit from remote Earth sensing datasets, allowing them to explore the planet in ways not otherwise possible and thereby improve understanding of key issues in Earth science and their connections to daily life. In addition, the project will develop, test and refine a new visualization tool that then can be replaced and applied by the science museum community at large.

Funders

NSF
Funding Program: ISE/AISL
Award Number: 0515528
Funding Amount: 1780375

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Daniel Barstow
    Principal Investigator
    TERC Inc
  • Marlene Cole
    Co-Principal Investigator
    TERC Inc
  • Discipline: Geoscience and geography | Technology
    Audience: General Public | Museum/ISE Professionals
    Environment Type: Media and Technology | Games, Simulations, and Interactives | Exhibitions | Museum and Science Center Exhibits

    If you would like to edit a resource, please email us to submit your request.