Microsoft Research and Disney�Pixar�s WALL�E Explore the Real Universe
Microsoft Research and Disney�Pixar team up to offer guided tours of the universe with WorldWide Telescope.
(November 18, 2008) Microsoft Research teamed up with Disney�Pixar to create a virtual tour of the universe hosted by none other than WALL�E, the animated robot from Disney�Pixar�s latest film, �WALL�E,� which is available in stores today on DVD and Blu-ray Disc. Anyone with a computer and an Internet connection can take the tour and view the universe from WALL�E�s perspective by visiting www.worldwidetelescope.org. A teaser for the tour can also be seen on the DVD and Blu-ray Disc.
Along for the adventure with WALL�E, Academy-Award-winning director Andrew Stanton narrates the tour. �Using Microsoft�s WorldWide Telescope, WALL�E takes you on a real ride through space,� Stanton said. �After watching the movie on DVD, the whole family will be inspired to learn more about the world in which we live and the universe beyond.�
WorldWide Telescope is a rich Web application that brings together imagery from the best ground- and space-based observatories across the world to allow people to easily explore the night sky through their computers. WorldWide Telescope has been embraced by the astronomical and education communities as a compelling, astronomical resource for students and lifelong learners.
�WorldWide Telescope is about making science fun for everyone,� said Curtis Wong, manager of Microsoft�s Next Media Research Group. �By working with Disney�Pixar, we�re enabling kids and families to discover the magic of the universe for themselves in an even more engaging way. What could be more fun than exploring space with a famous robot?�
-- Posted November 25, 2008