Virtual Jetpacks and a 3D Theater of Pompey at web.alive

Submitted by Ann on Fri, 10/22/2010 - 21:05

Some snaps taken at web.alive's archaeology test environment. “Want to go for a jetpack adventure and see Roman Architecture?”

Figuring it was almost weekend, and I deserved a break from the Valley of the Kings and Stonehenge (and because sightseeing by jetpack sounds rather intriguing) I quickly answered “Installing!” and in no time joined Joe Rigby at web.alive's virtual Theater of Pompey.

I must admit to behaving like a real tourist on my little trip and to being navigationally challenged – getting about in a different 'virtual space' really feels like switching languages (or keyboard).

Luckily, guide Joe came to the rescue and paitiently answered my typical holidaymaker questions: harass him with touristy questions. Who built the theatre? Is it open to the public? Is taking snapshots allowed?

Rome's Theatrum Pompeium might have been constructed by Pompey around 60BC, virtual Theater of Pompey is a tad more recent, and built by King's visualisation lab – '7.5 million polygons and still counting'.

The web.alive 'archaeological test environment' is more proof of concept than a fully finished 3D area, yet everybody is welcome to give it a try – and see if you can identify the other ancient Roman meshes floating around. If you want a guided tour, which comes with impressive spatial sound (although no theatre accounstics) I suggest you say 'Hi!' to Joe – he tweets as @joerigby1339 and skypes as joe133952.

A real enjoyable experience, and if you are interested in 3D models, virtual worlds and heritage, I suggest you go have a look. My only regret was that I was dressed as a tourist (this is a snap of the 'real' virtual me, shortly after my first rezday), but until someone _really_ invents a fully functional metaverse, I'll just have to make do. Joe, next time I come to visit, can I bring my own mesh, skin (and guns)? ;)

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About The Author

Ann Wuyts (follow me: e-mail or

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Last three pieces by this author:

Unique Iron Age Hoard goes on display at Ipswich Museum | Royal Artefacts - Including King Tut's Golden Trumpet - Returned to Egyptian Museum Cairo | SCA releases full list of treasures missing from the Cairo Museum

Ann 'Vint' Wuyts (on Google+) is looking after the Heritage Key community and avatar health & entertainment. She is slightly fascinated by everything to do with 3D technology and what's commonly defined as 'Web 2.0'. When she grows up, Ann - eventually - wants to be a mummy. Favourite game: Buzzword…

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Comments

Click Here:

Hi Ann,

As I was reading your post, I was thinking 'can it be accessed from anywhere?' and then you answered my question. I'm very interested in virtual things like that. I realize I may not have all the time it takes to go to all the historical museums and places during my life time so I do take advantage of advances in technology to see what I might miss. Right from the comfort of my home. I'll take a look now through the link you provided and perhaps share my 'experience' with you and other readers.

Thanks a lot.
James Carlton
Charm Bracelets | chamilia beads

Wed, 20-07-2011 23:01

self esteem kids:

sounds great idea!

Tue, 13-09-2011 12:05

boxing for the street:

<p>The Kings Visualization lab is a really great website, thanks!</p>

Fri, 16-09-2011 12:01

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