The Leap For Mankind

Lunar Terrain Generation

To create an authentic lunar landscape, a terrain generation system was implemented using digital elevation modeling techniques. The moon’s topography was designed with Blender, drawing inspiration from NASA’s lunar survey data. The resulting 3D model was exported as a grayscale heightmap, where pixel luminance corresponds to elevation: darker pixels represent lower areas, such as crater floors, while lighter pixels indicate higher features like hills.

On the website, an algorithm processes the heightmap data, converting each pixel into a positioned 3D coordinate. The generated terrain is enhanced with a normal map to create realistic surface textures that interact naturally with light. To add a visual variety, a system of randomized textures produces a natural gradient of moon dust coloration, with shade variations linked to the terrain’s elevation.

Cinematic Page Transition

Recognizing that standard web page transitions would diminish the narrative impact of this historical journey, I developed scene transitions inspired by cinematic techniques. After researching film editing methods, I implemented transitions designed to create a more cohesive storytelling experience. These carefully crafted transitions enhance immersion, creating a sense of continuity and progression that elevates the user experience beyond typical web navigation.

Particles

To address a common limitation of 3D graphics where particles abruptly disappear upon intersecting with surfaces, I adapted a technique from the video game industry known as Soft Particles. This approach creates a gradual fade-out effect as particles approach solid objects, resulting in more natural-looking interactions between particle systems and the 3D environment. Implementing this technique for web browsers presented certain technical challenges at the time, but the enhanced visual quality significantly improved the immersive experience.

User Interface

The user interface represents a deliberate fusion of historical authenticity and futuristic aesthetics. I adopted a minimalist overall design while incorporating distinct visual elements to create a unique identity. Certain interface components feature retro-inspired designs, such as the vintage television display at the website’s launch, warning notifications within games, and navigation menus inspired by NASA’s 1969 Mission Control flight-path monitoring systems. These historical references are balanced with science fiction-influenced elements, particularly in typography and interactive button designs.

I extended this dual-era approach to the audio experience as well, blending authentic Apollo mission recordings with atmospheric synthwave music compositions that evoke a sense of cosmic exploration.