"RADIUSED ROOF" in X3D Stereo
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- Category: Mars
- Written by David Gannett
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“RADIUSED ROOF” in X3D Stereo
Curiosity Sol 1450 M100 N-SE gigapan by Neville Thompson
Link: http://www.gigapan.com/gigapans/202222/snapshots/620415
Sedimentary boulders tumble down a steep, sandy slope in our context view. Broken slabs and weathered layers can often give a misleading appearance of non-fractality, i.e. being intelligently designed when in fact, it’s just the nature of sedimentary rock.
That said, over there on the left-hand side is a slab with rigidly-accurate ninety-degree angles.
Let’s take a closer look.
In our detail view, it seems rather difficult to reconcile whatever this is with a natural process. Take a look at the roof: rectangular, even thickness and ninety-degree angles. Look at the far corner and you can see that not only is the edge beveled, but that the entire slab has been nicely, evenly radiused along the entire visible perimeter down to the ninety-degree angles. Pretty impressive weathering!
It seems to be a pedestal of some kind. The base is even and symmetrical and the three layered triangular bas relief on the end is symmetrical as well.
Now granted, it is of course possible that an exposed boulder could weather in this fashion. But taking all the indicators listed above, it seems pretty unlikely.
It is either a rare and beautiful ventifact or a legitimate artifact of a lost civilization. Either way, it’s worth noting!
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“SO, HOW DO I VIEW X3D STEREO?”
Simple! While viewing the stereo pair at a comfortable distance, gently cross your eyes (no eye-strain) until you perceive three images all the same width. The one in the center is in 3D. Just relax into it and your eyes will automatically bring it into focus. Once you have it, you will never forget how to do it. Kinda like riding a bicycle…
For another, more detailed method of viewing X3D stereo, click HERE.
(Click for full-sized image)
