360-degree videos: a new visualization technique for astrophysical simulations

TL;DR

This paper introduces 360-degree videos as an innovative visualization method for astrophysical simulations, enabling immersive viewing and public outreach, demonstrated through the first such video of the Galactic centre's hydrodynamics.

Contribution

The paper presents the first 360-degree astrophysical simulation video and discusses methods to create and analyze such immersive visualizations for scientific and outreach purposes.

Findings

First 360-degree astrophysical simulation video created.

Methodology for producing 360-degree videos from simulations described.

Potential for new scientific insights through immersive visualization.

Abstract

360-degree videos are a new type of movie that renders over all 4$\pi$ steradian. Video sharing sites such as YouTube now allow this unique content to be shared via virtual reality (VR) goggles, hand-held smartphones/tablets, and computers. Creating 360$^\circ$ videos from astrophysical simulations is not only a new way to view these simulations as you are immersed in them, but is also a way to create engaging content for outreach to the public. We present what we believe is the first 360$^\circ$ video of an astrophysical simulation: a hydrodynamics calculation of the central parsec of the Galactic centre. We also describe how to create such movies, and briefly comment on what new science can be extracted from astrophysical simulations using 360$^\circ$ videos.