Spacecraft Dynamics 3D Graphics How to?

Question

I want to render 3d objects going around earth. 3D objects would be satellites or space-crafts. I would like also to render vectors from 3D objects for velocity, acceleration etc. I am familiar with C++ and Java. What would I need to know to achieve this? Thanks

Answer 1

you need basic math stuff for this like:

• vector math
• Understanding 4x4 homogenous transform matrices

Then also some basic gfx knowledge

• simple graphics pipeline
• lighting,shading,normal shading & bump mapping...
• gfx api (OpenGL,DirectX,GDI,...)
• 3D mesh loading and rendering

And finally physics

• Newton - D'ALembert physics for non relativistic speeds
• realistic n-body solar system simulation