iDaVIE v1.0: A virtual reality tool for interactive analysis of astronomical data cubes

TL;DR

iDaVIE v1.0 is a virtual reality tool designed for interactive analysis of large 3D astronomical data cubes, improving data inspection, quality control, and scientific interpretation in the era of big data.

Contribution

This paper introduces iDaVIE v1.0, a VR software platform that enables immersive visualization and interaction with astronomical data cubes, integrating seamlessly into existing workflows.

Findings

Successfully integrated with MeerKAT, ASKAP, and APERTIF data workflows

Enhanced data inspection and source detection capabilities in VR environment

Open-source platform supporting future development and collaboration

Abstract

As modern astronomy confronts unprecedented data volumes, automated pipelines and machine-learning techniques have become essential for processing and analysis. As these workflows grow more complex, astronomers also require input and inspection tools that can keep pace. To address challenges in navigating multidimensional datasets for quality control and scientific interpretation, we present the immersive Data Visualisation Interactive Explorer (iDaVIE), a virtual reality (VR) software suite developed in collaboration with the astronomy community. iDaVIE enables users to import and render large 3D data cubes within a VR environment, offering real-time tools for selection, cropping, catalogue overlays, and exporting results back into existing pipelines. Built on the Unity engine and SteamVR, the system uses custom plug-ins for efficient data parsing, downsampling, and statistical calculations. The software has already been integrated into workflows such as verifying HI data cubes from MeerKAT, ASKAP, and APERTIF, refining detection masks, and identifying new sources. Its intuitive interface aims to reduce the cognitive load associated with higher-dimensional data, allowing researchers to focus more directly on scientific goals. As an open-source, scalable, and adaptable platform, iDaVIE supports continued development and integration with other tools. Version 1.0 marks a significant milestone, with planned enhancements including subcube loading, advanced rendering modes, video-generation scripts, and collaborative capabilities. By pairing immersive visualisation with robust interaction tools, iDaVIE seeks to transform how researchers engage with complex datasets and enhance productivity in the era of big data.