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What is Cosmic Eye?
Cosmic Eye was imagined by an amateur astronomer that was once clueless about the cosmos. The learning curve of astronomy is very high and discourages new entrants into the science. However, if one can begin to understand the basic concepts and fundamentals of the science the beauty and impressive vastness of the universe is revealed. To aid in this learning curve a better viewing experience through a telescope is what Cosmic Eye wishes to accomplish; to expose the true nature of what you see through a telescope.
Astronomy is a science that offers a unique perspective to even the most casual of astronomers. It provides those who understand the fundamentals a special connection with the universe we are all so lucky to perceive and only just beginning to understand.
Cosmic Eye will utilize augmented reality display within the eyepiece of the telescope itself to overlay information and images that have been taken in different wave lengths of light to expose the true structure of the cosmos.
Different wave lengths of light can indicate different processes and events occurring throughout the cosmos. What can be seen through infrared light for example are regions of space that are active with star formation. Objects like nebula and galaxies can be seen with much better clarity and in more detail when looking at images taken with infrared filters and detectors. To illustrate this The Orion nebula is show below in a simulated view through Cosmic Eye:
The Orion Nebula in different wave lengths of light compared to a typical view through a telescope. Infrared and optical images: 2Mass, Mellinger, DSS2, and allWISE sky surveys.
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The Andromeda Galaxy seen in different wave lengths of light compared to a typical view through a telescope. Infrared and optical images: Mellinger, allWISE, AKARI/FIS, and DSS sky surveys.
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What We Need from You
I am asking for $6,000 which will pay for:
- Preliminary software development & research
- Hardware development and construction
- Payment and delivery of rewards
What You Will Get
This campaign is funding a prototype. Because of this the final product is not offered, however, there is some cool space related perks and rewards for those who donate that includes:
- An electronic EP inspired by space.
- An audio tour of the sky to aid stargazers.
- 12 x 18 prints of some of E.L. Trouvelot's astronomical drawings (c. 1870)
- Original Art Paintings of Space
- And more!
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Regardless if the campaign goal is met or not, the money raised will go towards prototype development. This is just one step of many and I hope we can foster enough interest to create a group of people whom would support further iterations of this product.
The Impact
The idea of this product arose from the various challenges I observed in learning astronomy myself and when trying to explain the basic concepts to others. Cosmic Eye is heavily dependent on the successful execution of the software -- making it easily usable, seamless, and informative. Software development is expensive and laborious especially when programming for augmented reality. It is for this reason that a majority of the money raised will go towards the development of the software. Your contribution will not only help increase the likelihood that this product is successful, but also aid in the depth and usability of the software.
Your aid toward this project could help on two major frontiers. The expansion of the science of astronomy, as well as increasing the contextual understanding of the cosmos to many more people. Not just the simple things, but truly expanding peoples' knowledge and perception of the universe that exists around and within them.
We are made of stardust, to use the phrase coined by famous astronomer Carl Sagan, and we are only the universe trying to understand itself. It is with this understanding that can come many great things, not just in science, but in human affairs as well. The universe truly touches every one of us, and it is through this mentality that our species may be able to transcend to a higher form of thinking and therefore a higher form of decision making.
Risks & Challenges
The risks that this project faces are very real. Although I am confident that this idea is very realistic given today's technological development, it is dependent on the proper formation of a team that values the vision and impact of the product as much as I do. This means that it may take some time before a true prototype is completed.
I have been talking with numerous software developers in order to find the right fit as well as someone who has the qualifications to build on this idea. I have networked with Boston Augmented Reality groups and fostered relationships with members of the augmented reality industry. Initial conversation is imperative and I have been constantly working with people to find members of use and interest.
Other Ways You Can Help
If you are unable to donate do not worry! There are ways you can still help.
Please spread the word of the campaign by posting and sharing on social media. The more people become aware of this idea, the more likely Cosmic Eye will succeed. Indiegogo even has a convienent share tool to easily allow you to quickly share this campaign on many social media platforms. Anything can help!
Many thanks!
Ashton