The AstroVR Collaboratory, an On-line Multi-User Environment for Research in Astrophysics
Damon Van Buren, Pavel Curtis, David Andrew Nichols, M. Brundage · 1995
Abstract. We describe our experiment with an on-line collaborative environment where users share the execution of programs and communicate via audio, video, and typed text. Collaborative environments represent the next step in computer-mediated conferencing, combining powerful compute engines, data persistence, shared applications, and teleconferencing tools. As proof of concept, we haveimplemented a shared image analysis tool, allowing geographically distinct users to analyze FITS images together. We anticipate that AstroVR1 and similar systems will become an important part of collaborative work in the next decade, with applications in remote observing, spacecraft operations, on-line meetings, and day-to-day research activities. The technology is generic and promises to nd uses in business, medicine, government, and education. 1.