We try very hard to make our rendered sequences as scientifically based as possible – these are not solely ‘artists interpretations’ (however, there is some artistic license used). Here is a partial list of the ways we obtained the 3D structure for the various shots in the show:

-For the Orion flythrough, we used high resolution Hubble imagery, plus models of the basic structure of the shape of the nebula obtained from our partners at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), who used a variety of techniques (both from Hubble imagery and from theoretical models) to map the structure and star locations. We did develop our own rendering techniques to give it the nebular ‘feel’, but we did so with input from astronomers.

-For the ultra deep field shot, Hubble spectroscopic data were used to determine approximate distances to each galaxy in the image (via their red-shift).

-For other models visible in the 3D rendered shots, we used a variety of sources, including other telescopic data (such as the galaxy positions, obtained from Dr. Brent Tully), scientific simulation results (for the cosmic web image at the end), and conglomerate models (such as that of the Milky Way) which are based on observed data, images of similar galaxies, and theoretical results.

We don’t want people to get the idea that our rendered sequences, which take up about 1/4th of the show, reflect actual Hubble capabiliities, and if I recall correctly, the narration does distinguish our animations from the very stunning still Hubble imagery (some depth was added to them by STScI, but they were a separate team, so I can’t say how they did it).

I hope this answered your question,
-matt

P.S. – I am writing this off the top of my head, and it should be fairly accurate, but any errors in describing the methods our team used are entirely my own.

ER
http://www.anonymous-VPN.eu.tc

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