Real-Time Terrain Deformation and Physics Simulation of Lunar Soil in an Interactive Virtual Environment

Abstract

Terrain deformations caused by human interactions are a common occurrence. This is particularly true for the moon’s surface which is covered in regolith, a combination of loose rocks, pebbles and dust. When simulating the lunar surface, the plausibility and immersion can be enhanced, if interactive ground deformations are considered. This thesis presents a height field-based surface simulation capable of modeling deformations according to physics simulations or textures that hold precomputed deformation data. Moreover, the height field is used to update the collision data of the surface mesh, allowing physics objects to interact with the deformed terrain. A real-time demonstration of the system is implemented within the Unreal Engine. Furthermore, this thesis details the integration and utilization of various engine features. This includes state-of-the-art rendering techniques that are used to create a visually accurate representation of lunar regolith. Through the combination of physics-driven terrain deformation and advanced rendering, this work contributes to more immersive and credible virtual environments.