The University is hosting a public lecture on Thursday 15 March about the AlloSphere, presented by Professor JoAnn Kuchera-Morin from the University of California.
The AlloSphere is a unique scientific instrument consisting of a 30-foot diameter sphere built inside a three-story cube. The AlloSphere is a physical place in which scientific data can be visualised, manipulated and explored.
The AlloSphere offers science an entirely new way to see and interpret data, in full colour and surround sound. Users can dive into the brain, feel electron spin, or even hear the music of the elements.
The AlloSphere cube is treated with extensive sound absorption material making it one of the largest anechoic (echo-free) chambers in the world.
Dr JoAnn Kuchera-Morin stood inside the AlloSphere. Credit: Paul Wellman.
The project is the culmination of 26 years of Professor Kuchera-Morin’s creativity and research efforts in media systems and studio design. She approached the design of the AlloSphere in much the same way that she would compose a piece of music.
Professor Kuchera-Morin said: “Visualizing, hearing and exploring complex multi-dimensional data provides insight that is essential for progress in a number of critical areas of science and engineering, where the amount and complexity of the data overwhelm traditional computing environments.
“The AlloSphere intersects science, engineering and new media, and is highly relevant to a whole range of research fields.”
The lecture will take place in 4 East 3.10 at 12.30- 2pm on 15 March. Attending the lecture is free, but if you would like to experience this unique opportunity then please e-mail David Allen to reserve your place.
More information about the AlloSphere can be viewed in this TED lecture by Dr Kuchera-Morin.