Print this pagePaleogeographic 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.
