NASA Launches 3D Instagram Filters Allowing Users To Travel Virtually Through Objects In Space
The new Instagram experiences are created from 3D models based on data collected by Chandra and other telescopes along with mathematical models.
NASA has launched a new filter on Instagram, allowing users to explore the universe through augmented reality (AR). This special feature, called the 'Instagram Chandra' experience, celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Chandra X-ray Observatory, NASA's flagship X-ray telescope.
How To Use NASA Instagram Filter?
Search for the "NASAChandraXray" account on Instagram
Select the effects options and select the one you want.
You can either click on the "Try it" option or save it to your camera and apply to your stories.
What The Filter Includes
With this Instagram filter, you can add elements like the wreckage of stars destroyed in supernova explosions, dense cosmic gas and dust, and other celestial phenomena to your selfies. This AR filter uses 3D models generated from data collected by the Chandra X-ray Observatory and other telescopes. Users can also listen to data sonifications, where cosmic data is transformed into sound.
About NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory:
The Chandra X-ray Observatory is a telescope designed to detect X-ray emissions from hot regions of the universe, such as exploded stars, galaxy clusters, and matter around black holes. Orbiting up to 139,000 km (86,500 mi) above Earth, the observatory's data is processed and distributed by the Smithsonian's Astrophysical Observatory in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
3D Instagram Experiences
The new Instagram filter includes 3D models of various astronomical objects such as the Tycho supernova remnant, the Vela Pulsar, the Helix Nebula, the Cat’s Eye Nebula, and the Chandra spacecraft. These models were created using data from Chandra and other telescopes, combined with mathematical models.
Bringing Space Data to Earth:
Kimberly Arcand, a scientist at the Chandra X-ray Center, said, "We are excited to bring data from the universe down to Earth in this way. By enabling people to access cosmic data on their phones and through AR, it brings Chandra’s amazing discoveries literally right to your fingertips."
Sonification and Accessibility
The filter also includes data sonifications, where cosmic data is translated into sounds. This feature is part of a four-year Chandra accessibility programme. Arcand added, "These Chandra Instagram experiences are another way to share these cosmic data with the public. We are hoping this helps reach new audiences, especially those who like to get their information through social media."
