NASA to Use Microsoft Photosynth for Shuttle Launch

Microsoft said Monday that it had partnered with NASA to give an unprecedented look at the Endeavour Shuttle launch through Photosynth, its platform that uses standard camera images to create navigable 3D views. 360 degree views of the shuttle boosters, Vehicle Assembly Building, and launchpad will be available, NASA and Microsoft said.

MSNBC, a joint partnership between NBC and Microsoft, will also provide additional multimedia surrounding the launch, as well as linking back to the Photosynth collections. "This collaboration with Microsoft gives the public a new way to explore and participate in America's space program," NASA Space Operations Associate Administrator William Gerstenmaier said. He added that the technology could be used for future missions.