3 day sprint · co-op no. 1 · spring 2024
NASA Prop Set
A self-directed project to create a set of optimized 3D props for VR environments and visualizations.
The Graphics and Visualization Lab (GVIS) needed a set of NASA-themed props that could be added to virtual reality environments. Inspiration was taken from objects commonly found around the lab and items that could showcase NASA branding. The target platform for this project is Meta Quest 3.
Props were modeled in Blender and are an optimized poly-count to meet the limitations of the target platform.
More props and furniture were created but were omitted from this showcase.
Props were UV unwrapped in Blender and packed to a single square tile.
Square UVs were used where possible to prevent possible texture deformation. Additionally, objects that would have logos or text on them have higher texel density in order to ensure clarity.
Props were textured in Adobe Substance 3D Painter using a combination of projection, hand-painting, and procedural techniques.
It was important to use the correct amount of padding when working with the NASA "meatball" logo, and ensure that it was aligned using its visual center.
Some details are blurred or omitted.
Due to limitations of the target platform, effects such as subsurface scattering had to be faked.
In order to create the appearance of a translucent wet floor sign; for example, the inside of the sign was textured to create the illusion of light shining through.
Props were tested in Unity for any visual or functional issues. At this time, I consulted the Senior Virtual Reality Developer for feedback, and was able to make several improvements:
Adjusted the Blender export settings to ensure scale was correct when importing into Unity.
Separated props into individual FBXs instead of one large FBX.
Fixed any flipped Normals and distorted textures.
There are no public-facing projects that showcase these props at this time.
