Islands in Infinity: Galaxies 3D Brings Galactic Worlds to Life Through Stereoscopy

Flora Lichtman interviews astrophysicist Derek Ward Thompson and astronomer Brian May about Islands in Infinity: Galaxies 3D, a book that turns flat galaxy images into three dimensional space using a novel stereoscopic process. The creators discuss how 3D reveals the true shapes and dynamics of galaxies, including interacting systems, and how JP Mesaaino’s data-driven technique makes distant cosmic structures feel tangible. Beyond science, the conversation highlights the fusion of art and astronomy, the importance of communicating science engagingly, and Brian May’s journey from rock star to space-enthusiast. The episode also touches on how seeing space in 3D can change our understanding and appreciation of the universe.

Introduction and guests

In this episode, Flora Lichtman chats with Dr Derek Ward Thompson, an astrophysicist at the University of Lancashire, and Dr Brian May, the renowned guitarist and astronomer, about Islands in Infinity, a book that translates two dimensional galaxy images into three dimensional representations. The book’s stereoscopic lifelike visuals are created with the help of JP Mesaaino, a Finnish expert who converts spatial data from galaxies into accurate 3D models. This project marks a first in galactic stereography, aiming to make the viewer feel as if they could reach into a galaxy and hold its structure in their hands.

The science and the method

Derek describes how 3D viewing reveals galaxy structures and interactions that are not obvious in flat images. The team uses available galactic data to infer depth and geometry, enabling readers to perceive aspects like thickness, orientation, and dynamical features that are otherwise hidden in photographs. A key focus is the chapter on interacting galaxies, where 3D visualization helps clarify collision dynamics and outcomes that are ambiguous in two dimensional pictures. As Derek notes, the stereoscopic approach brings a sense of genuine scale and spatial relation that flat imagery cannot convey.

Interacting galaxies and scientific insight

One of the most striking scientific takeaways is how 3D perspectives clarify galactic collisions. Derek explains that in three dimensions you can reconstruct the sequence of interactions and even contribute to debates about collision geometries, something difficult to pin down from 2D images alone. This demonstrates that stereoscopy is not just a novelty; it can deepen our understanding of galaxy evolution and the physical processes that shape them.

Art, science, and the bridge between them

Brian May speaks about his long-standing love of both science and art, arguing that a complete person should engage with both. He reflects on how art and music can illuminate scientific ideas and help communicate them to a broad audience. A central theme is the collaboration between scientists and artists to translate complex space phenomena into accessible, emotionally resonant visuals.

Communication, truth, and the role of creativity

The conversation turns to the broader context of science communication in the digital age. Brian cautions that misinformation often gains traction online, underscoring science’s obligation to cultivate critical thinking and curiosity. Derek adds that the excitement of scientific discovery should be shared beyond the lab, making science approachable and enjoyable for people of all backgrounds.

"the excitement that we feel about science because the other aspect about schools is they can make science seem very fusty and kind of boring and hard work, but it should be fun." - Derek Ward Thompson, astrophysicist.

"the complete person, the complete human being has to understand both art and science. They have to understand the beauty of the universe." - Brian May, astronomer.

"it's hard to find the truth and it's much easier to propagate misinformation on the internet" - Brian May, astronomer.

"you look at those two dimensional pictures and it's sort of difficult to figure what's going on. You see it in three dimensions, and suddenly you see the whole train wreck of these galaxies that are literally tearing each other apart" - Derek Ward Thompson, astrophysicist.