NASA's 3D Instagram Project Features Breathtaking Nebulas Captured by Chandra

NASA's new project provides unique 3D "experiences" on Instagram, using data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory and other telescopes to offer augmented reality (AR) simulations. It enables users to virtually traverse breathtaking nebulas.

These immersive experiences will allow users to explore various astronomical phenomena, such as remnants of exploded stars. The project also commemorates the 25th operational anniversary of NASA's Chandra X-ray telescope.

NASA's 3D Instagram Experiences for Chandra's Groundbreaking Discoveries

NASA noted that over the years, Instagram has served as a platform for users to engage in virtual explorations of NASA's activities, including mission control operations, the International Space Station, and the Perseverance Rover on Mars.

The addition of Chandra Instagram filters expands this collection of space-themed content, providing space enthusiasts with immersive encounters of the universe's wonders.

Kimberly Arcand, a visualization and emerging technology scientist at the Chandra X-ray Center, is enthusiastic about publicizing access to cosmic data through these Instagram experiences.

By integrating cosmic data into mobile devices and AR, users are expected to see Chandra's captivating discoveries firsthand, bringing the marvels of space to their fingertips.

The development of these Instagram experiences relies on intricate 3D models derived from data captured by Chandra and other telescopes, alongside mathematical simulations.

NASA explained that acquiring three-dimensional data of celestial objects posed challenges traditionally due to their two-dimensional representations in the sky.

However, recent advancements in instrumentation and methodologies have facilitated the creation of more accurate 3D models, enabling astronomers to depict these distant cosmic objects with greater accuracy.

NASA, the Smithsonian Institution, and scholars from Brown University collaborated to create these immersive Chandra Instagram experiences.

Space Music for the Ears

Furthermore, within the Chandra Instagram experiences, astronomical data is transformed into a literal " space music for the ears" through a process known as sonification. This method makes astronomical data more accessible by converting it into sounds.

Arcand emphasized the importance of these Instagram experiences in reaching a wide range of audiences, especially those active on social media platforms.

The curated collection features celestial objects such as the Tycho supernova remnant, the Vela Pulsar, the Helix Nebula, the Cat's Eye Nebula, and the Chandra spacecraft.

According to NASA, these models have been meticulously crafted through collaborative efforts with astrophysicists and researchers, promising an immersive user experience,

Additionally, each Instagram experience is complemented by explanatory text, offering users valuable insights into the celestial phenomena they are observing.

These effects can be accessed free of charge through Instagram's mobile application for at least six months, with select content available indefinitely on the Smithsonian's Voyager 3D website.

"These Chandra Instagram experiences are another way to share these cosmic data with the public," Arcand said in a statement. "We are hoping this helps reach new audiences, especially those who like to get their information through social media."