3D Printing the World: Developing Geophysical Teaching Materials and Outreach Packages

Measurements and models of global geophysical parameters such as potential fields, seismic velocity dynamic topography are well-represented traditional contoured and/or coloured maps. However, teaching aids for public engagement, they offer little impact. Modern 3D printing techniques help to visualise these other concepts that difficult grasp, the intangible structures in deep Earth. We have developed a simple method portraying scalar fields by modified globes surface topography, representing parameter interest additional, exaggerated topography. This is particularly effective long-wavelength (>500 km) fields. The workflow uses only open source free-to-use software, resulting print easily effectively on cheap (<$300) desktop printer. In this contribution, we detail our provide examples different with suggestions topics can be discussed engagement settings. Some most simply planetary 3D, including Earth, Mars, Moon. powerful way explain importance plate tectonics shaping planet linking features deeper processes. addition, applied crustal thickness, geoid tomography. By analogy Russian nesting dolls, “seismic matryoshkas” multiple layers removed audience explore present within learn about ongoing Handling provokes new questions draws attention compared 2D Our complementary methods data, aiding learning through touch intuition making education outreach more inclusive visually impaired students disabilities.