3D IMAGING,
MODELING and SPECIAL EFFECTS
SketchUp - Google's 3D modeling program for
standalone modeling and integration with Google Earth
(Mac and PC)
Maya - Sophisticated 3D modeling program.
Steep learning curve, but if you need lots of 3D, its
worth knowing about. (Mac and PC)
Motion - Part of Apple's Final Cut Studio
package. Very powerful, intuitive 3D and special effects
program (Mac)
After Effects - Adobe's Long time standard special
effects and 3D program. (Mac and PC)
Fledermaus - Excellent 3D modeling program.
Especially useful for modelling real world data that is
geospatial in nature.
3D VIRTUAL GLOBES -
digital renderings of the world drapped with high
resolution satellite imagery and other
layers.
Google Earth - PC, Mac and Linux. The one and only.
Available in six language versions
ESRI's ArcGIS Explorer - Designed to primarily interact with
data from ArcGIS and ArcGIS Server, but offers full
featured 3D support. PC only
Microsoft's Virtual Earth
- PC only
NASA's WorldWind - PC only, Mac compatibility
coming