Paleogeographic Reconstructions Using Interactive Three-Dimensional Computer Graphics

Christopher R. Scotese, Malcolm I. Ross

A computer program has been written (MEGADRIFTER) that permits users to interactively produce plate tectonic, paleoclimatic, and paleogeographic reconstructions. This program has been developed on an Evans and Sutherland PS390 and uses digital data compiled by the PALEOMAP Project, Working Group 2B, of the International Lithosphere Program. The digital data base consists of information describing a variety of geographic and geologic features, such as political boundaries, topography, bathymetry, faults, fracture zones, sutures, magnetic isochrons, volcanic edifices, lithofacies patterns, paleoisobars, and paleowind directions. MEGADRIFTER displays this geographic information in three dimensions on the surface of the globe. The user can produce plate tectonic reconstructio s by interactively manipulating dials and function buttons to visually determine best-fitting rotation parameters.

MEGADRIFTER is part of an integrated geographic information system that (1) digitally converts map data from Cartesian coordinates (X, Y) to geographic coordinates (latitude/longitude), (2) attaches meaningful attributes to the geographic records, (3) searches and sorts through the geographic attributes using a rudimentary geographic data base manager, and (4) plots the data in map form using standard cartographic techniques (GCTP).

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #91022©1989 AAPG Annual Convention, April 23-26, 1989, San Antonio, Texas.