The sound of data
Data can be represented using methods or dimensions beyond visual means. Just as the difference between reading a recipe and tasting the prepared dish unveils distinct perspectives, utilizing sound as a tool to explore data can lead to fresh insights and enhance understanding. Also, sound plays a crucial role for visually impaired individuals in perceiving and analyzing information that is not inherently auditory.
Sonification is the process of converting data and information into non-speech sound. Refer to the paper by Zanella, Harrison, Lenzi, et al. (Nature Astronomy, 2022) for a review of several sonification projects solely in astronomy.
Herein, both discrete and continuous frequency distributions are rendered into audible form, drawing inspiration from astronomy and physics:
- Variable stars (with a soundfont for most of them);
- Thermal radiation.
Published: July 12, 2024 | Last Updated: August 18, 2024
