CSC 471: Final Project, Winter 2010

By: Matt Carson

A Simulation of the Solar System

Overview

The goal of this program is to create a mock-up of our solar system. The user is placed inside a box that is supposed
to replicate a feeling of being in the middle of our solar system. The program allows for the user to move around (using the 'a' 's' 'd' 'f' keys and the mouse)
and explore the different planets as they rotate around the sun. The user may also fix him/her self at a certain planet and
rotate with the planet.

Features

A galaxy-like skybox that surrounds the user
Simulation of planets rotating around the sun
Mathematical approximations: proportions of planet sizes (except for the sun, since it is too big)
as well as the periods around the sun
Camera movement throughout the solar system
Camera adjustment on a rotating planet

Controls

Moving Around:

Move Forward – 'w' Key

Move Backward – 's' Key

Strafe Left – 'a' Key

Strafe Right – 'd' Key

Animation:

Toggle animation on/off – Spacebar (' ' Key)

Reset planets position (turns animation off automatically) – 'r' Key

Picking A Planet's Viewpoint

(GUI)