XR-based interactive visualization platform for real-time exploring dynamic earth science data

Abstract

The transition from 2D planar displays to immersive holographic 3D environments has brought advancements in visualization technology. However, there remains a lack of effective interactive visualization tools for complex multi-dimensional structured or unstructured datasets in immersive space. To address this gap, we have developed MetIVA, a state-of-the-art multiscale interactive data visualization platform that leverages the Extended Reality (XR) and cloud rendering technology for immersive data exploration. In this paper, we firstly outline the historical development of scientific visualization and the recent shift towards 3D and higher-dimensional visualization, and then basically introduce the conceptual framework and platform structure of MetIVA, and finally present the evaluation results from recruited potential users. The results confirm that MetIVA is a powerful tool to accelerate data exploration and decision-making processes. Its interactive and intuitive features, along with ongoing optimization efforts, make it a valuable tool for researchers and practitioners in the field of Earth science.