The Virtual Reality Mars Atlas User Interface (VR-MAUI) provides an atlaslike interface for access to Mars data. This access is provided via the World Wide Web, using JAVA. Within VR-MAUI, images are organized as maps. These maps provide a natural coordinate system, which defines feature locations. VR-MAUI is used to (1) examine, process, display, and analyze variable-resolution images of Mars and (2) interactively create VRML models of the Martian surface. VR-MAUI provides a point-and-click interface for selecting a specific location on Mars. Users identify locations by image features, pixel coordinates, or map coordinates. Data can be displayed in the forms of text, maps, still images, movies, and VRML models.

The current version of VR-MAUI provides an interface to Viking and Mars Pathfinder data. Future versions will provide similar access to other objects in the solar system. When fully developed, VR-MAUI will (1) display planetary surfaces and atmospheres in three dimensions using VRM and (2) display and analyze spacecraft and instrument data during flight operations.

This program was written by Raymond J. Bambery, Eric M. DeJong, Steven R. Levoe, and Myche McAuley of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free on-line at www.techbriefs.com under the Computer Software category, or circle no. 149 on the TSP Order Card in this issue to receive a copy by mail ($5 charge). This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Don Hart of the California Institute of Technology at (818) 393-3425. Refer to NPO-20173.