JPL uses cutting-edge augmented reality and virtual reality technology to explore space and our own planet in innovative ways. JPL’s scientists plan and analyze activities for the Mars Curiosity rover while walking on a 3D reconstruction of the Martian surface. Mechanical engineers designing spacecraft and rovers can preview full-scale holographic prototypes before any parts are built. Astronauts aboard the International Space Station can receive virtual assistance from experts on the ground and work more efficiently by using AR interfaces. These are only some of the projects in AR and VR that are going on right now at JPL. This talk will present recent projects that leverage immersive technology to tackle unique visualization challenges, and discuss research that shows the efficacy of these techniques.
Nathaniel “Nat” Guy is a Lead User Interface Developer in the Human Interfaces Group http://www.hi.jpl.nasa.gov at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He has Master’s degrees in Computer Science and in Aeronautics & Astronautics, both from the University of Washington. Prior to joining JPL, Nat spent five years as a software engineer at Nintendo of America, and has also worked on software testing for SpaceX and ground system software development for the Hakuto Lunar XPRIZE Team in Japan. At JPL, Nat builds highly test-driven 3D interfaces for AR and web-based platforms to support mission operations and planning for the upcoming Mars 2020 rover mission.