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Completed TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 5)
This task is developing algorithms for existing sensors that will be capable of reconstructing remote worlds and efficiently shipping that remote environment back to earth using the RAPID robot messaging system. This type of system could eventually lead to scientists on earth gaining new insights as they are able to step into the remote world. This sensor also has the ability to engage the public, bringing remote worlds back to earth. During FY13, this task used science operations personnel from current SMD projects to objectively measure improvement in remote science target selection and decision-making based. We continue to work with SMD projects to ensure that the technologies being developed are directly responsive to SMD project personnel needs. The objective of this work in FY14 is to expand the range of science operations tasks addressed by the technology, and to perform laboratory demonstrations for JPL/SMD stakeholders of the immersive visualization of data from a sensor using an SMD representative environment.
The developed system will be demonstrated to elements of SMD interested in obtaining large amounts of high-quality science data from increasingly capable robotic platforms.
Candidate missions include Mars surface exploration, MER, MSL and the upcoming Mars 2020 missions.
The team will also engage NIAC and other advanced exploration and mission concept communities to demonstrate how the developed system can aid in understanding novel environments such as lunar lava tubes.
This task will develop algorithms for existing sensors, which rapidly capture images and depth data of the surrounding environment and reconstruct a 360-degree 3D virtual model, optimized for remote interactive display within common visualization software packages, game engines, and immersive display systems.
The system will:
Developed technologies will be aligned with potential SMD science operations customers, will use SMD science operations personnel as test subjects, and will document measurable improvements in science return from SMD-relevant instruments and environments.
Candidate missions for this technology (a tightly integrated sensor and software systems that can rapidly capture images and depth data of the surrounding environment and reconstruct a 360-degree 3D virtual model optimized for remote interactive display within common visualization software packages, game engines, and immersive display systems) include Mars surface exploration, MER, MSL and the upcoming Mars 2020 missions.
This type of system could eventually lead to scientists on earth gaining new insights as they are able to step into the remote world.
This sensor also has the potential to engage the public, bringing remote worlds back to earth. Data sets could be explored in NASA visitor centers or science museums with 3D immersive kiosks.
It is also feasible that this technology could be modified to make it accessible to the public at large over the internet, utilizing home 3D game systems like the Kinect, allowing them to explore previously recorded data sets.
Terrestrial applications could include military use for immersive exploration of terrestrial locations via remotely located robots.
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