Vandenberg Air Force Base Enhances Space Launch Imagery With Autodesk Visual Effects and Video Editing Software Solutions

San Rafael, CA (PRWEB) January 7, 2008 -- Autodesk, Inc. (http://www.autodesk.com) today announced that Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, is using the Autodesk Smoke editing/finishing system (http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?id=5561833&siteID=123112) and Autodesk Flame visual effects system (http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?id=5562722&siteID=123112) to quickly produce high-definition space launch videos. This suite of products has helped Vandenberg AFB seamlessly transition to HD video and has reduced video production time by 50 percent, with video and visual products ready for viewing in less than an hour.

The Autodesk Smoke and Flame Suite enables visual information specialists at Vandenberg AFB to collect and manipulate the data from their 300 field and high speed cameras, capturing 130 frames per second, without decreasing the image resolution. Users are able to acquire data, and depending on the requirements, stabilize blurriness, remove elements to de-classify images and infuse spectra of light to compile and store mission pictures, allowing a seamless workflow. The solution also supports live feeds of streaming video from new initiative and program testing.

"As the only National Transportation Safety Board launch facility on the West Coast, Vandenberg is responsible for managing Department of Defense space and missile testing, and placing satellites into polar orbits," said Bill Goodson, Vice President, Autodesk Government . "It was essential during their transition to high-definition digital data that they continue to quickly produce high-quality videos for a wide range of audiences from scientists to the President of the United States. The functionality of Autodesk's Smoke and Flame Suite ensured they were able to easily support their mission in a timely, cost-effective and secure manner."

"While Vandenberg Air Force Base's unique requirements may seem different from Autodesk's traditional editing and visual effects users, such as film studios, the need for a multi-functional editing and visual effects system that can aid in the production of high-quality, high-definition imagery products is standard across the board," said Juliana Slye, Director, Autodesk Government. "Autodesk's Smoke and Flame Suite can help users easily capture, edit and share vast amounts of data, while delivering superior content with speed and visual impact."

About Autodesk Government (http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/index?siteID=123112&id=8987960)

Autodesk Government is a dedicated organization within Autodesk that has served the needs of federal and state/local government agencies for more than 20 years. Autodesk Government delivers software solutions that integrate geospatial, manufacturing, design and engineering data with other critical information to reduce the time it takes to make informed decisions. In roles that include emergency response management, physical infrastructure design and protection, mission rehearsal, simulation and training, and asset tracking, Autodesk Government is a trusted partner to help agencies ensure mission success.

About Autodesk (http://www.autodesk.com/)

Autodesk, Inc. is the world leader in 2D and 3D design software for the manufacturing, building and construction, and media and entertainment markets. Since its introduction of AutoCAD software in 1982, Autodesk has developed the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art digital prototyping solutions to help customers experience their ideas before they are real. Fortune 1000 companies rely on Autodesk for the tools to visualize, simulate and analyze real-world performance early in the design process to save time and money, enhance quality and foster innovation. For additional information about Autodesk, visit www.autodesk.com.

Autodesk, AutoCAD, Flame and Smoke are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Autodesk reserves the right to alter product offerings and specifications at any time without notice, and is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document.

© 2007 Autodesk, Inc. All rights reserved.

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