Project Overview:

Using a combination of drone footage and geomagnetic data, this project seeks to produce a realistic, immersive visual portrayal of the May 2024 geomagnetic storms. The intention is to document the storm-induced auroras' beauty and impact, presenting them in a scientific and artistic manner.

Project Concept:

Magnificent auroras were visible in many parts of the planet, including far southern locations not usually associated with such light displays, in May 2024 as a result of a series of powerful geomagnetic storms that struck Earth. Through the use of artistic interpretation and scientific precision, the events will be digitally recreated in this project.

How it Operates:

Gathering of Data:

Drone Footage: Real-world footage of animals or landscapes that would have been impacted was recorded by drones outfitted with high-resolution cameras.

Geomagnetic Data: Utilising geomagnetic storm data from organisations like NASA or NOAA, such as the Kp index (a scale used to assess geomagnetic storms), to make sure the depiction of the auroras is accurate in terms of strength and behaviour.

Creating a 3D Model of the Storms:

Blender 3D Modelling: Using precise sky and lighting models in Blender to combine drone footage. Recreate the dynamic, swirling lights of the auroras using Blender's potent particle systems and shaders, which are based on real-time data from the geomagnetic storms.

Aurora Stimulation :

Using Blender's volumetric lighting and shader features, one may replicate the auroral colours of pink, purple, and green. Implementing realistic motion to match the dancing waves of light as they appeared during the storm, ensuring that the visual qualities such as speed, height, and spread represent the strength of the May 2024 storms

Presentation of the Science Behind the Event:

Alongside the visualizations,it was provided an educational content to explain the science behind geomagnetic storms, how they occur, and their impacts on the Earth's magnetosphere and atmosphere.

Benefits and Impact:

Educational: This project will provide a visually engaging way to explain the science behind geomagnetic storms and auroras. It could be used in classrooms or by science centers to help people understand and visualize these rare natural phenomena.
Artistic: The stunning visuals created using Blender and drone footage will appeal to artists and filmmakers who are looking for awe-inspiring representations of nature.
Historical Documentation: This project will serve as a digital time capsule of the May 2024 geomagnetic storms, preserving them for future generations to experience and study.

Instruments and Technology:

Hardware: Drones: outfitted with high-definition cameras to capture aerial video of aurora-impacted areas.

Blender- the software used for 3D modelling, animation, lighting, and landscape and aurora rendering.

Photogrammetry software: Programs for converting drone footage into three-dimensional models, such as Agisoft Metashape or Pix4D.

Software for Simulating the Aurora: Additional programs or plugins, like Blender custom shaders, can be used to replicate the distinct light effects of the aurora.

Python is one of the programming languages used for Blender scripting and data processing and particle simulation automation.

Data Sources: NASA and NOAA: To guarantee scientific accuracy in the visualisations, these agencies provide geomagnetic storm data (such as solar wind data and the Kp index).

Project Objectives:

Educate: Using a captivating visual experience, spread knowledge about geomagnetic storms and their effects on Earth's magnetosphere and atmosphere.

Inspire: Give artists and filmmakers a tool to examine actual events in a virtual manner, encouraging artistic study and enjoyment of natural happenings.

Preserve: Provide a digital reconstruction of the May 2024 geomagnetic storms so that they can be consulted and studied for a very long time.

2024 NASA Space Apps Challenge

This Barbie and Ken is in STEM.