Advanced Data Visualizations for Climate Intelligence
Marked by heightened awareness and global concern over the climate crisis, the MIT Media Lab's Future Worlds Research Theme has been at the forefront of tackling the urgent climate challenges facing our planet. By harnessing transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, supercomputer visualizations, and powerful immersive experiences, our goal is to influence human behavior, and help societies everywhere to improve life on Earth.
Earth Mission Control
Aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of climate change, Earth Mission Control (EMC) is an immersive, AR/VR data visualization platform that utilizes satellite Earth Observation (EO) data. This interactive tool is designed to make complex climate data accessible and comprehensible, enriching our analysis, decision-making capabilities, and understanding of the impact and effectiveness of various climate projects and policies. Through our collaborations with NASA, the World Economic Forum, and diverse industry stakeholders, EMC demonstrates how EO data and advancements in AI and data visualizations can serve as a powerful tool for ensuring transparency and accountability. This allows stakeholders to track, verify, and ensure compliance with metrics aligned with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) criteria, and strategically plan for climate resilience.
In the development of the EMC beta design, we have intentionally shaped our VR vignettes around three foundational pillars:
- Demystify Complexity: Simplify complex data, transforming it into clear, accessible insights.
- Hyperlocal Storytelling: Craft a narrative through a hyperlocal lens, ensuring resonance and relevance at a community level.
- Human Impact: Spotlight the human aspects of climate change, equipping individuals with the knowledge and tools to advocate for meaningful climate action.