Above the Clouds: A Tribute to Earth

Plus 360 Degrees Creates Immersive, Interactive Experience

The Earth and the cosmos have always been a source of inspiration for artists and designers. Plus 360 Degrees has taken this inspiration to a new level with "Above the Clouds." Inspired by Carl Sagan's book "Pale Blue Dot" and the stunning CG graphics of the "Cosmos, A Space Odyssey" TV series, the team decided to create a similar experience that would be accessible to any user through their browser.

"Above the Clouds" is not just a visual experience. It is also an auditory journey, with music specifically composed for this purpose. As viewers navigate through different angles of Earth, they can read a quote from Carl Sagan's "Pale Blue Dot," further enhancing the immersive experience. The project aims to make people pause from their hectic daily lives and appreciate the Earth in all its sublimeness.

The project uses WebGL technology and was fully developed using JavaScript and GLSL. The 3D models were meticulously created and optimized, and different textures were used to achieve the desired realistic result. The project runs in any modern browser on desktop computers, laptops, and modern smartphones/tablets browsers.

Creating "Above the Clouds" was not without its challenges. The team had to find a common ground in using elements that would render in most hardware and devices. Creating the shaders of the Earth, the specific glows, and the sun brought new challenges that the team successfully overcame. The project is set to receive further updates to enhance the user experience.

"Above the Clouds" is a testament to the power of design and technology in creating immersive experiences. It is a reminder of the beauty and uniqueness of our planet. It is a call to treasure and protect Earth. The project was awarded Silver in A' Website and Web Design Awards in 2017, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.