National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is one of the most respected organizations in the world for its dedication to the advancement of space exploration. Taking part in NASA’s glorious history is James Tralie, who works as a Planetary Science Producer and Animator. James plays a crucial role in amplifying NASA’s many achievements out into the world in a way that will be understood by people from all walks of life. Having such a role, the artist aims to inspire others who want to use their artistic passion and skills to forward science and spread knowledge about one of the most important pursuits of humankind.
James Tralie’s role at NASA can be compared to animators and producers in various entertainment industry giants, but his work intrigues the audience differently as they are made to enlighten them with complex scientific discoveries and space missions. James specializes in visualizations, animations, and documentaries, covering a plethora of topics across NASA’s many explorations, and presenting them in a way that would excite the general public. His works are educational and entertaining at the same time, adding value to audiences worldwide and encouraging everyone to better understand planetary science.
Over the years, James Tralie has worked with various tools and methods to portray his messages across a spectrum of audiences, from a 360-degree video that places the viewer on the surface of an asteroid to a comic book-style animation about the ionosphere of Mars. James continually finds ways to make his content engaging and suitable for people of all ages to help NASA better serve the public.
Although he began studying 3D animation during his undergraduate studies at Princeton University, James Tralie first got his hands into creating 3D environmental renders during the onset of the pandemic. As he was missing hiking outdoors with friends like many people, he wanted to find ways to bring the fun of being outdoors indoors, exploring life as it was at the comfort of his home.
One thing led to another, and James Tralie was able to launch his project called “Great Indoors,” a series that has been growing since March 2020. The series aims to provide a feeling of relaxation for the viewers, even just for a few seconds before scrolling down on their screens. His series became a big hit. He realized how 3D environmental renders not only entertain people but also engage them longer and help them understand a particular environment better than just static representations.
“I take a very multidisciplinary approach to all my works. I have a scientific background, majoring in Geophysics at Princeton University, however, I have always fostered a love for film and animation,” shared James Tralie. “Through my work, I combine my scientific knowledge with my artistic eye to develop my productions for NASA and with the freelance projects I work on as well,” he added further.
Beyond entertainment, James Tralie transports his audience to different places in space and on the planet. He provides viewers with a meditative and calming experience as they learn about various discoveries. Indeed, James is doing his fair share of making an impact, all while he pursues his passion and forwards NASA’s planetary science missions to the rest of the world.
