CLOUD

NASA Earth Observing System (EOS) website launched the ability to tour Mars in 3D on-line ( www.eoscenter.com ), using technology from Skyline Software Systems, Inc., a leading provider of 3D visualization software and pioneer of web-based interactive 3D "fly-through" technology. "Skyline has pioneered network-based technologies in interactive 3D visualization. Their approach to networking 3D visualization allows us -- researchers, analysts and educational outreach programs -- to share relevant geospatial data in a web-based environment. We are particularly excited about Skyline's ability to process geospatial data in a real-time environment, so that the public can get timely access to NASA research," states Jeff Crews, Assistant Director of the NASA EOS Education Project at The University of Montana. "We will use this technology to engage students in rural settings and bring to life science education resulting in enhanced academic achievement." Skyline technology, collectively called TerraSuite, is currently available to explore Mars, using the NASA imagery. Mars enthusiasts can download the Skyline free-viewer and discover the location of where the "Spirit" rover has landed. The Mars 3D model was created from multiple NASA data sources including imagery from Mars Viking Orbiter (global imagery) and Mars Global Surveyor (high resolution) and terrain elevation data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA). "Skyline is committed to serving the research and academic community," states Paul Collins, Chairman and CEO of Skyline Software. "Using TerraExplorer on-line with NASA research enables us to explore and understand changing environments both globally and beyond."