"STONE ARTIFACT" in X3D Stereo
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- Category: Mars
- Written by David Gannett
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“STONE ARTIFACT” in X3D Stereo
Opportunity Sol 1570 gigapan by Neal Spence
Link: http://gigapan.com/gigapans/211362/snapshots/619726
Our context view shows a dark and looming cliff with scattered debris lying in its talus. Over there on the left, something is wedged under a boulder.
Taking a closer look, our detail view shows what may be a broken pillar or lintel lying just under the lip of the boulder. Parallel wavy lines showing the same symmetry and distance from one another are carved in bas-relief on the left end. On the right end, a circular carving lies against a nicely-radiused edge. Straight lines and ninety degree angles abound.
On top, an intriguing ledge showing a clear right angle is also carved in bas-relief. Unfettered speculation sees this as a decorative portion of a building; as mentioned above, possibly a door lintel or a supporting pillar.
To try and imagine wind-driven sand as creating these sharp angles and symmetrical shapes is stretching belief beyond the breaking point in my opinion!
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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)