Understanding our changing environment is more important than ever, and innovative tools like GeoPanorama are making it easier to visualize and analyze real-world data. Developed by John van der Zwaag with the Geo Project team, GeoPanorama is a cutting-edge, web-based platform that allows users to explore scanned locations in a 3D virtual environment using 360° panoramic images and 3D depth data.

Whether for scientific research, disaster response, coastal resilience planning, or education, GeoPanorama provides a unique, immersive way to experience landscapes without ever setting foot on-site.

How GeoPanorama Works

GeoPanorama leverages high-resolution panoramic imagery and depth mapping to create interactive 3D visualizations of scanned locations. This means users can "step into" an area virtually, rotating their view to observe details from multiple angles—just as if they were physically there. Currently, the platform features scans from Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and North Carolina, with a strong focus on coastal and flood-prone regions. These visualizations help researchers and decision-makers assess the impacts of storm surge, sea level rise, and environmental changes over time.

GeoPanMaker: Capturing Data in the Field

To expand GeoPanorama’s capabilities, van der Zwaag also developed GeoPanMaker, an iPad application that enables users to capture panoramic images and depth data directly in the field. This tool is particularly useful for quickly documenting locations and landmarks, making it easy to update and expand GeoPanorama’s database. GeoPanMaker also allows researchers, educators, and emergency planners to gather on-site data that they can present at conferences, workshops, and training sessions they are attending. This integration makes GeoPanorama a dynamic, ever-evolving resource for geospatial analysis and environmental monitoring.

Why GeoPanorama Matters

With rising sea-levels and environmental shifts becoming more pronounced, tools like GeoPanorama provide a powerful visual aid for understanding and addressing these challenges. By offering accessible, interactive, and data-driven geospatial experiences, the platform supports:

• Coastal and environmental research
• Disaster response and emergency planning
• Public awareness and education
• Decision-making for policymakers and scientists

GeoPanorama is free and accessible online, allowing users to explore scanned locations and see geospatial technology in action.

Explore GeoPanorama Today

For more information about this technology, contact vanderz@gri.msstate.edu. Also, stay connected with the Geo Project for more updates on cutting-edge geospatial tools that help us better understand and navigate our world!