OceanVive: An Immersive Visualization System for Communicating Complex Oceanic Phenomena

TL;DR

OceanVive is an immersive visualization system designed to improve communication of complex oceanic phenomena through interactive, spatial narratives and adaptive visual encodings, validated by expert feedback.

Contribution

The paper introduces OceanVive, a novel immersive visualization platform that enhances the communication of complex ocean data using interactive and adaptive features.

Findings

Enhanced understanding of ocean phenomena through immersive visualization

Positive expert feedback on communication effectiveness

Potential to improve public engagement with marine science

Abstract

Communicating the complexity of oceanic phenomena-such as hypoxia and acidification-poses a persistent challenge for marine science. Despite advances in sensing technologies and computational models, conventional formats like static visualizations and text-based reports often fall short in conveying the dynamics of ocean changes. To address this gap, we present OceanVive, an immersive and interactive visualization system that transforms complex ocean datasets into navigable spatial narratives. OceanVive incorporates an exploratory panel on a table-sized tablet for managing immersive content on a large screen and integrates adaptive visual encodings, contextual storytelling, and intuitive navigation pathways to support effective communication. We validate the system through expert interviews, demonstrating its potential to enhance science communication and promote deeper public understanding.