Using Virtual Environments to Visualize Atmospheric Data: Can It Improve a Meteorologist’s Potential to Analyze

Conventional analysis of atmospheric data includes three-dimensional desktop-computer displays. One disadvantage is that it can reduce the ability to zoom in and see small-scale features while concurrently viewing other faraway features. This research intends to determine if using virtual environments to examine atmospheric data can improve a meteorologist's ability to analyze the given information. In addition to possibly enhancing small-scale analysis, virtual environments technology offers an array of possible improvements. Presented is the theory on developing an experiment to establish the extent to which virtual environments assist meteorologists in analysis. Following is the details of an implementation of such an experiment. Based on the quantitative results obtained, the conclusion is that immersion can significantly increase the accuracy of a meteorologist's analysis of an atmospheric data set. ii DEDICATION To Ann-Marie, for her considerable moral support and common-sense advice. iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The author would like to thank the members of his graduate committee, Dr. for the knowledge and wisdom provided for this research and in my graduate education. Science Education for providing atmospheric data and meteorological insights.