Converting Images for Use in STK

You can convert external images and terrain formats into a format compatible for visualization in the 2D Graphics and 3D Graphics windows. Image Converters are available from the Utilities Menu.

To access the following converters, select Image Converter... from the Utilities Menu.

• The Single Image Converter creates STK-compatible image files from your source images and terrain data. Terrain data is pre-processed using the source images, dramatically improving the rate at which the globe file will be rendered in the 3D Graphics window.
• The Image Converter produces output for display in the 3D Graphics window, in the .pdttx or. jp2 format. Additionally, terrain data that is preprocessed with an image is delivered in the form of a .pdtt file that is linked to the .pdttx image file.
• To use the .pdttx format, you may need to replace your computer graphics card with a newer version. See Optimizing 3D Globes.

• You can also use AgGxChunkImageConverter, which is a stand-alone image converter application, to convert terrain and imagery to .jp2, .pdttx and .pdtt file formats for 3D visualization. This stand-alone executable may be run from the command prompt or may be launched from another application.

• The Multiple Images Converter converts multiple source images and terrain data to .pdttx, .jp2, .bmp, or .ppm files that can be displayed in the 3D Graphics window. Additionally, terrain data that is preprocessed with an image is delivered in the form of a .pdtt file that is linked to the .pdttx or .jp2 image file.
• The Terrain Region Converter creates terrain inlays (pdtt files) for a specific region. Use this converter instead of the Image Converter to create a .pdtt file without having to create a .pdttx or .jp2 file. Creating these files separately enables you to convert an updated image for a particular region without having to reconvert the image data.

To access the Terrain Converter, select Terrain Converter... from the Utilities Menu. The Terrain Converter creates a topographically derived inlay file, representing varying elevations with a hierarchy of colors that can be custom-specified. Using the Terrain Converter, you can produce output for display in either the 2D Graphics or 3D Graphics windows; in the .jp2 or .pdttx formats for 3D display, or in .jp2, .bmp, or .ppm format for 2D display.

Click here for an overview and a step-by-step tutorial on the importation and utilization of external imagery and terrain data.