3D Moon in Augmented Reality
An immersive augmented reality experience for astronomy education that allows students to explore and interact with a 3D model of the Moon.
Augmented Didactic in STEM teaching is a new project by Pietro Oliva, PhD
The code is public and available on github at his profile https://github.com/pietrooliva/pietrooliva.github.io
THE PROJECT
This Augmented Learning project transforms the study of astronomy into an interactive and engaging experience. Students can explore a three-dimensional model of the Moon directly from their own device, without the need for additional apps or specialized hardware. WebAR technology allows immediate access to this educational resource through any modern browser.
Main features:
- Intuitive interaction with the 3D model via touch or mouse
- Accompanying audio for didactic explanations
- Animations simulating the lunar rotation
- Cross-device compatibility (desktop, tablet, smartphone)
FUNCTIONALITY
Immersive Visualization
Explore the lunar surface in realistic detail with advanced 3D rendering.
Intuitive Controls
Rotate, zoom and move the model with natural touch gestures or mouse controls, suitable for any age.
Educational Audio
Audio accompaniment with scientific explanations that enrich the learning experience.
Dynamic Animations
View the rotation of the Moon with smooth animations that can be activated with a simple click.
TRY THE AR EXPERIENCE
Explore the 3D model of the Moon by interacting directly in the frame below when using a desktop device. You can also experience this AR model on your mobile device by scanning the QR code.
Scan with your mobile device
Mobile Device Instructions:
- Scan the QR code with your mobile camera
- Allow access to camera and motion sensors when prompted
- Hold your device steady to see the 3D lunar model
- Use touch gestures to rotate, pinch to zoom, and two fingers to pan
Note: On mobile devices, access to camera and motion sensors is required for the full AR experience. For the best results, use in a well-lit environment. For desktop devices, adjust the zoom using the Shift key + mouse wheel.
TECHNOLOGIES USED
This Augmented Learning project was created using modern web technologies that make the AR experience accessible on any device with a compatible browser:
- A-Frame: A-Frame: JavaScript framework for creating virtual and augmented reality experiences on the web.
- AR.js: AR.js: Library for implementing augmented reality features directly in the browser.
- Sensori di movimento: Motion Sensors: Integrate with your device's sensors for a more immersive experience.
- Three.js: Three.js: JavaScript library for 3D visualization in the browser, used internally by A-Frame.
EDUCATIONAL VALUE
Augmented reality is revolutionizing the way students learn complex astronomical concepts. This teaching tool offers many advantages:
- Experiential Learning: Students learn through direct interaction with the 3D model.
- Spatial visualization: Helps better understand the lunar surface features and morphology.
- Accessibility: Available on any device with a browser, with no additional cost for specialized hardware.
- Engagement: Significantly increases student engagement and motivation.