The research team over at the Microsoft Technology Center has released a video demo showcasing their latest Surface 2.0 application called NUIverse. This innovative application allows users to explore the universe and planets using the Surface 2.0 multitouch navigation system, providing an immersive and interactive experience.
Watch the video after the jump to see the NUIverse application designed by David Brown for the Samsung SUR40 for Microsoft Surface in action.
Exploring the Universe with NUIverse
The NUIverse application provides a fast and fluid method of exploring our universe and planets. It leverages a multitouch user interface to enable users to control their position and navigate through space seamlessly. This application is not just a visual treat but also an educational tool, allowing users to learn about different celestial bodies, their positions, and their movements in real-time.
One of the standout features of NUIverse is its ability to simulate the night sky from any location on Earth at any given time. This means you can see what the sky looked like on the day you were born or what it will look like in the future. The application also includes detailed information about stars, planets, and other celestial objects, making it a valuable resource for both amateur astronomers and seasoned stargazers.
“One of my colleagues came up with the name ‘NUIverse’, and since a major motivation behind creating this app was the opportunity to explore the use of Natural User Interface (NUI), and the name is a nice play on the spelling of ‘Universe’ the name has stuck.
While there are still a heap of tweaks and new features on my TODO list, I thought it was a good time to share a short video captured from the app.”
Innovative Features and Future Enhancements
The NUIverse application is packed with innovative features that make it a unique tool for exploring the cosmos. For instance, the multitouch navigation allows multiple users to interact with the application simultaneously, making it perfect for collaborative learning environments such as classrooms or science museums. Users can zoom in on specific planets, rotate them to view different angles, and even simulate their orbits around the sun.
Another exciting feature is the ability to overlay constellations and other astronomical data onto the night sky. This helps users identify and learn about different constellations and their historical significance. The application also includes a time-lapse feature that allows users to see the movement of celestial bodies over time, providing a dynamic and engaging way to understand astronomical phenomena.
David Brown, the designer of NUIverse, has hinted at several future enhancements that could make the application even more powerful. These include the integration of real-time data from telescopes and space missions, which would allow users to explore the latest discoveries in space. There are also plans to add more detailed textures and models for planets and other celestial bodies, making the experience even more visually stunning.
In conclusion, NUIverse is a groundbreaking application that leverages the power of multitouch technology to provide an immersive and educational experience of exploring the universe. With its innovative features and potential for future enhancements, it is set to become an invaluable tool for anyone interested in astronomy and space exploration.
Source: Verge
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